Only 110 MW solar power added to net metering in seven years: Study

Solar Net Metering System has been set up in 55 per cent of commercial buildings, 28 per cent of residential structures, and 16 per cent of industrial facilities, according to a recent study.

In the last seven years, only 110 MW of solar power has been added to the net metering system, it stated.

The study revealed a 55.6 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from industrial production through net metering.

The study findings were presented at a roundtable workshop to disseminate research findings for "Solar Net Metering in Bangladesh with a Focus on Export Processing Zones (EPZs): Prospects, Challenges and Scaling" at an auditorium in Dhaka city on Saturday.

Abul Khair Md Aminur Rahman, member (Power) at Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC), spoke at the function as the chief guest.

Estiaque Bari, Senior Lecturer, Department of Economics, East West University, presented the study findings at the event.

M Zakir Hossain, founder and chief executive of Change Initiative, moderated the function.

At least 333 megawatt (MW) of additional solar power can be generated using only 30 per cent of the EPZ area, the study said.

The Change Initiative (CI) conducted the study.

The government published the Net Metering Guideline in July 2018.

A total of 2015 solar net metering system has been set up so far since 2023, the study findings said.

Speaking at the event, Abul Khair Md Aminur Rahman mentioned that if a portion of the wheeling charges is allocated to the EPZ authorities for implementing net metering in the EPZ area, it will be beneficial for both parties.

Zakir Hossain stated that if the net metering system is prioritised for economic zones and export processing zones, it will boost the power generation capacity of industries and ensure energy security.

He added that this will contribute to the sustainable economy of the country.

[email protected]