Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), a state-run research organisation, has developed a smartphone application (App) to facilitate installation of solar home systems.
The App titled 'Solectricity' will help a user make an estimation of optimum use of the accessories required for installing the solar panel for household usage.
Science and Technology Minister Architect Yeafesh Osman inaugurated the App at a press conference at a conference room of the BCSIR premises in the city's Science Lab area on Saturday.
The BCSIR Chairman Professor Dr. Md. Aftab Ali Shaikh, its directors, officials and researchers were present at the function.
Speaking on the occasion, Yeafesh Osman said the App is an important step towards developing a smart Bangladesh as per the government's vision.
He said the government is working to provide all the citizens with uninterrupted power supply for a holistic socio-economic development.
"Renewable power sources like solar energy are playing a vital role in this regard," he said.
Regarding the recent interruption in the power sector, he said the situation is expected to become normal soon.
Mr Aftab Ali Shaikh said the installation process of Solar Home Systems (SHS) is a complicated process.
A user requires solar panels, battery, charge controller, inverter and other equipment for the SHS, he said adding that the quantity or capacity of different accessories are finalised through varied calculation which is difficult for most of the users.
"In many cases, commercial SHS providers advise the users for additional equipment for a SHS more than their actual need. Consequently, people are deceived or they have to bear extra expenses," he said.
The App will help people assess their requirements and choose optimum SHS.
BCSIR Principal Scientific Officer Muhammad Shahriar Bashar, on behalf of the research and development team, made a presentation on the new App.
He said the app will be available on the Google Play store soon, he said, adding: "We will continue to add more and more features in future,"
Another version targeted for Apple device users will also be available, he added.
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