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New MPPA framework set to transform renewables

Experts say industry-to-industry power deals could accelerate green transition and strengthen post-LDC competitiveness

Chairman of the Bangladesh Power Development Board Md. Rezaul Karim speaks at an event titled 'Powering Bangladesh's Green Future: Stakeholder Forum on Merchant Power Purchasing Agreement & Renewable Energy' at a city hotel on Wednesday — FE photo
Chairman of the Bangladesh Power Development Board Md. Rezaul Karim speaks at an event titled 'Powering Bangladesh's Green Future: Stakeholder Forum on Merchant Power Purchasing Agreement & Renewable Energy' at a city hotel on Wednesday — FE photo

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Experts and sector insiders at a discussion on Wednesday said the imminent Merchant Power Purchase Agreement (MPPA) framework would transform how industries in Bangladesh procure renewable energy.

The possible transition of the renewable energy sector would also help Bangladesh prepare for its LDC graduation and its energy policy strategy, according to them.

The observations came at an event, organised by the Nordic Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) in Bangladesh in cooperation with the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka titled "Powering Bangladesh's Green Future:

The event brought together senior policymakers, private-sector leaders, development partners, financiers, and international experts to discuss the MPPA framework.

According to the organizers, the MPPA will allow private investors to generate and sell renewable electricity directly to customers, bypassing the traditional Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the government.

This marks a significant shift from the previous Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, under which the state-run Power Development Board (PDB) was the sole buyer of electricity, they added.

NCCI President Tanveer Mohammad in his address said the upcoming introduction of MPPA framework places Bangladesh in a pivotal position in its renewable energy transition.

He highlighted that green energy is a constant requirement for Nordic companies, driven by their global sustainability commitments and operational standards.

"A well-designed MPPA framework will therefore play a key role in helping Nordic businesses meet their global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments while contributing to Bangladesh's green transition and long-term economic resilience," he continued.

Ambassador of Norway to Bangladesh Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen in his address said as Bangladesh prepares for its LDC graduation, the path forward demands strategic foresight, particularly in energy policy.

Representatives from H&M, Grameenphone Ltd and Huawei Technologies (Bangladesh) Limited delivered presentations on corporate readiness, sustainability commitments, and technology solutions for renewable energy integration.

They highlighted how to adopt the new technologies in the green energy sectors, including the solar power panels for better maintenance.

The programme hosted panel discussions, where the panelists emphasised the need for transparent policy implementation, strong financial instruments, and industry-government collaboration.

Chairman of the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) Md. Rezaul Karim, Farhana Islam, Head of ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance), Grameenphone, Shayan Shafi, Stakeholder Engagement & Public Affairs Manager, H&M Hennes & Mauritz AB, Sayef Tanzeem Qayyum, Operations Officer, IFC, Md Masud Rana, Deputy Manager, Paramount Solar Ltd, Kazi Ahsan Uddin, joined as panelists while advisor, economic cooperation and private sector development, GIZ Bangladesh, moderated the discussion.

They said it would have a positive impact on the private sector as it would create more jobs and employment and enhance exports.

BPDB chairman said the interim government keeps green energy development one of the priority areas and is ready to promote the sector and help the investor.

The GP official said they remain one of the major consumers of green energy. However, they still have not decided to invest in the sector as a major consumer.

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