Bangladesh is at a critical juncture in its energy sector. With increasing demand on account of rapid urbanisation, industrial growth, and rising living standards, the reliance on conventional fossil fuels is proving unsustainable. According to the Bangladesh Power Development Board, the country's total installed electricity capacity has exceeded 25,000 MW. However, more than 30 per cent of rural households still experience irregular electricity supply. Simultaneously, heavy dependence on natural gas and imported fuel threatens both environmental sustainability and energy security.
Renewable energy offers a transformative solution. Solar, wind, and biomass technologies have matured globally, presenting viable alternatives to conventional energy sources. The government's "Solar Home System" programme has already benefited over 5.0 million rural households, underscoring the potential for clean energy expansion. However, despite these achievements, the penetration of renewables remains low compared to regional peers. Bangladesh derives only about 3.0 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources. In contrast, India and Vietnam have achieved 12-15 per cent in the same period.
Investing in renewable energy can stimulate economic growth while creating employment opportunities. Solar farms, wind energy projects, and biomass plants require skilled human resources for installation, operation, and maintenance. Expanding decentralised renewable solutions, such as community solar microgrids and small-scale wind turbines, can bridge this gap. International collaborations with organisations such as the UNDP, GIZ, and ADB can support technical expertise, financing and capacity building for large-scale adoption of clean energy solutions.
Policy support is critical. Incentives such as tax exemptions, low-interest loans for renewable energy startups, and feed-in tariffs can encourage private sector participation. Moreover, integrating renewable energy education in vocational institutes and universities may cultivate a workforce skilled in clean energy technologies, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Environmental benefits are equally compelling. By reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, Bangladesh can lower carbon emissions, enhance air quality, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Additionally, renewable energy projects can help reduce pressure on natural resources, thereby preserving rivers, forests and ecosystems -- a prerequisite for livelihoods and biodiversity.
So, promoting renewable energy is not just an environmental necessity but an economic opportunity for Bangladesh. By prioritising investment, policy incentives, skill development, and urban-rural energy equity, Bangladesh can secure a sustainable energy future, create jobs, and strengthen resilience against climate risks. Policymakers, private investors and civil society need to collaborate in promoting renewable energy for a greener Bangladesh.
Towfiq Sultan
Lecturer, Brave Jubilant Scholars of
Monohardi Model College,
Narsingdi.
towfiqsultan.help@gmail.com
