StanChart wins 'Renewable Energy Adoption Award'

FE Team | Published: January 21, 2024 23:35:54

Solar Village project at Ghughumari Char in Kurigram

Standard Chartered Bangladesh has won the 'Renewable Energy Adoption Award - Bangladesh' at the ESG Business Awards 2023 recently, says a statement.
The bank's Solar Village project with Friendship was recognised by the award committee for elevating the quality of life and building community resilience for all 750 residents of Ghughumari Char in Kurigram.
Under the project, the remote island's infrastructure has been upgraded to include a 54-kilowatt solar micro-grid and 60 tube wells.
The bank and the Friendship have also planted 1,350 saplings across the island to bolster climate resilience.
By providing access to essential resources, the bank is lifting participation amongst marginalised individuals and is helping to build a sustainable community that lives in harmony with nature.
Standard Chartered has had a meaningful impact in the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) space in 2023, owing to the launch of a range of sustainability and community engagement initiatives.
Bitopi Das Chowdhury, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand & Marketing, Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, "Located 15 kilometres away from the mainland and disconnected from our national grid, Ghughumari is a shining example of how reliable renewable energy can have a transformative effect on hard-to-reach communities. When we visited in 2023, we heard incredible stories of strength and resilience. Soon we hope to hear stories of how transformative this has been for Ghughumari residents. We are happy to be recognised by international award bodies for the efforts we are making to support our communities."
Runa Khan, Founder and Executive Director, Friendship, said, "The 'Renewable Energy Adoption Award' is a testament to Friendship SPO (Social Purpose Organisation) and Standard Chartered Bangladesh's collaborative effort, illustrating responsible renewable energy opportunities."
The ESG Business Awards celebrates companies that are leading the way in building a sustainable future. The awards programme honours businesses that demonstrate outstanding commitment and achievement in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices.