'BD could generate 10,000 MW of solar power using unused govt land'

Bangladesh has the potential to generate up to 10,000 MW of solar power by utilising unused government land, including railways and roads, according to Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Energy and Mineral Resources Advisor. 

 

Speaking at a seminar titled "Renewable Energy, Decarbonisation, and Energy Transition" organised by the Bangladesh-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BGCCI) in Dhaka on Tuesday night, Khan stressed that leveraging this land could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and oil.

 

The Energy Advisor also emphasised the immense investment opportunities within Bangladesh's renewable energy sector. 

 

He announced plans to issue tenders for 40 new renewable energy projects aimed at boosting clean electricity generation. Khan urged both local and international investors to seize these opportunities and actively contribute to the nation’s energy transition.

 

The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, energy experts, and development partners to exchange ideas and explore sustainable solutions for a greener future. The discussions focused on strategies and challenges for implementing clean energy, reducing carbon emissions, and achieving sustainable development in Bangladesh.

 

 Achim Tröster, Ambassador of Germany to Bangladesh, in his speech, highlighted the challenges posed by Bangladesh's reliance on fossil fuels. 

 

He also emphasised the investment opportunities within the renewable energy sector.

 

The Ambassador further stated, "Germany is committed to supporting Bangladesh in its transition to a low-carbon future. Through collaboration in technology transfer and investment, both countries will work together to enhance energy security and tackle global challenges."

 

The seminar was graced by Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Adviser to the Ministries of Power, Energy & Mineral Resources, Road Transport and Bridges, and Railways, who attended as the Chief Guest. Special Guests included Achim Tröster, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Bangladesh; and Md. Abdul Hye Khandaker,  Chairman of the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA).

 

Notable keynote presentations were delivered by Dr. Ijaz Hossain, Energy and Environment Specialist, former Professor & Dean of Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), and Mohammad Alauddin, Rector of the Bangladesh Power Management Institute (BPMI).

 

Key themes of the seminar included an overview of renewable energy development and challenges, decarbonization strategies, identifying best practices and technologies for reducing emissions in energy-intensive industries, and energy transition challenges and opportunities. The seminar focused on required policies, regulatory frameworks, and socio-economic impacts. In his keynote speech, Md. Alauddin mainly focused on renewable energy, energy mix, solar, wind power, and agrivoltaics. Dr. Ijaz Hossain talked about decarbonization, energy efficiency, energy conservation, and transitioning to cleaner sources.

 

The panel discussion featured distinguished experts such as Mohammad Alauddin; Ratan Kumar Ghosh, Member (Joint Secretary) of SREDA; Faisal Rabbi, Energy Specialist at The World Bank; Tanzina Dilshad, Program Manager for Environment and Energy at the EU Delegation; and Md. Tanvir Masud, Head of Project, Skills4SE, GIZ Bangladesh. Dr. Ijaz Hossain moderated the discussion.

 

During the panel discussion, Mohammad Alauddin shared his perspective on agrivoltaics, a dual-use approach combining solar energy generation with agricultural practices to enhance land productivity while contributing to energy production.

 

 Taif Hossain shed light on the European Union's Global Gateway initiative, emphasizing its crucial role in driving renewable energy projects in Bangladesh. 

 

Ratan Kumar Ghosh discussed ongoing energy efficiency and conservation efforts in Bangladesh and the pressing need for new regulatory measures to optimize energy performance across sectors.

 

 Tanvir Masud offered insights into the potential for wind energy, predicting its significant contribution to the national energy mix by 2030 and 2040.

 

 Faisal Rabbi highlighted key challenges in the energy transition process and outlined strategies For overcoming roadblocks to achieve a low-carbon energy future.

 

The seminar emphasised the global shift towards sustainable energy systems as an essential pathway for meeting International climate goals.

 

 The participants agreed on the urgent need for coordinated action to promote renewable energy and address climate change.

 

M. Maksud, President of BGCCI, stated, "The primary objective of this seminar was to raise awareness, foster collaboration, and share knowledge on the key issues surrounding renewable energy, decarbonization, and energy transition. It also provided a platform to explore the policy frameworks, technological innovations, and financial models needed to accelerate the transition to a greener economy, both in Bangladesh and globally." 

 

He further added, "We believe this seminar will catalyze meaningful dialogue and partnerships that will drive Bangladesh's energy transition and contribute to innovative solutions and policy development for a sustainable energy future."

 

The seminar was chaired by Tariq Anwar, Director of BGCCI, with Md. Farooque Khan, Vice President of BGCCI, serving as Co-Chairman. Md. Farooque Khan concluded the programme with a vote of thanks.