Dhaka: Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood today announced that the government is actively working on formulating a policy to enhance the solar and renewable energy sector in Bangladesh. "If proper policy support is ensured, it will be possible to transform Bangladesh's solar power sector," he asserted during the inaugural session of the '15th International Bangladesh Infrastructure Innovation and Development Expo and Dialogue-2026' held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mahmood emphasized that Bangladesh is poised to embrace solar energy, needing only a supportive policy to revolutionize the sector. The minister highlighted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman recently established a committee to expedite the policy's formulation, targeting its finalization within this month and subsequent issuance as a government order post-approval from the Cabinet Division in June.
Drawing parallels with the garment sector's transformation in the 1980s under Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's policy support, Mahmood expressed confidence that similar backing could spark a revolution in the solar sector. The government is focusing on easing regulations, facilitating the import of essential equipment such as inverters, frames, and panels, and offering tax benefits to invigorate the sector.
Highlighting the importance of battery storage, Mahmood stated that the government is prioritizing this area to ensure solar power generated during daylight can be utilized during evening peak hours. The ambitious plan aims to generate 10,000 megawatts of solar power in the next five years.
On the topic of rooftop solar, the minister mentioned the serious consideration of installing solar panels on residential rooftops, allowing electricity supply to the national grid and bill adjustments via net metering. Building owners stand to gain financial benefits from this initiative, potentially reducing load-shedding in Dhaka if private enterprises can facilitate solar power systems for every house in the city.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Muzaffar Ahmed, Chairman of Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA); M Azizur Rahman Ripon, Chairman of the Forum for Energy Reporters Bangladesh (FERB); and Rashedul Haque, Managing Director of ExpoNet.