Khulna: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today at the Khulna Club auditorium between Sundarban Delta Growth Initiative (SDGI) and the Arab contractor consortium Orascom Peninsula, aiming to build a 600-megawatt solar power plant in Khulna, with an estimated cost of Tk 8,000 crore.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, SDGI Chairman Mohammad Ali Asgor Lobby briefed journalists about the project before the signing ceremony. He stated that this project marks the first phase of a broader initiative to generate 2,000 megawatts of renewable energy. This aligns with Bangladesh's national target of sourcing 25 percent of its total energy from green sources by 2030. Lobby emphasized the project's significance in expanding green energy across the country in line with the SDG-based strategic development plan of Bangladesh.
The 600 MW solar project is expected to ensure energy security, reduce carbon emissions, uphold environmental justice, and create employment opportunities for the local population through industrial relocation. Officials disclosed that over 1,500 acres of land will be required for the project, with current surveys taking place in the Shiromoni and Bil Dakatia areas of Khulna city. If these areas prove unsuitable, alternatives in Mongla will be considered.
Lobby, who is also a former chairman of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), mentioned that the project will initially begin with generating 200 megawatts, gradually expanding to 600 megawatts. He highlighted the aim to restore the pride of this once-thriving industrial zone. The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from Orascom Peninsula, including Zhang Xiao Dong and Shi Leng, Khulna University Professors S.K. Mahmudul Hasan and Dr. Kazi Jahangir Hossain, City Unit BNP President Advocate Shafiqul Alam Mona, and SDGI representative M.A.N. Shaheen, among others.