Dhaka:The government has released the Special Solar Power Installation Ordinance, 2026, which facilitates the establishment of solar power projects with a capacity of up to five megawatts. This initiative aims to accelerate the expansion of solar energy systems across the country.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the gazette notification for this ordinance was issued on October 19. The ordinance permits the development of solar power projects on rooftops, courtyards, unused land, tea gardens, as well as floating and agrivoltaic systems. It also includes provisions for penalties related to theft, vandalism, illegal connections, and obstruction of solar power systems.
Under the ordinance, solar power systems with a maximum capacity of five megawatts are classified as "special solar power systems." However, large-scale ground-mounted solar power projects are excluded from its scope. To install a special solar power system, a tripartite agreement among the consumer, service provider, and competent authority is required, following a government-prescribed standard contract template. The agreement will cover aspects such as site-use rights, equipment standards, e-waste management, manufacturers' take-back schemes, electricity tariffs, and net-metering facilities.
The ordinance also calls for the formation of a National Policy Council, headed by the prime minister, to oversee solar power expansion and policy coordination. The council will include ministers or state ministers and senior secretaries from relevant ministries, including finance, law, and power. Additionally, District Technical and Coordination Committees and Upazila Technical and Coordination Committees will be established to manage field-level activities and report to higher authorities.
Penalties prescribed under the ordinance include up to three years' imprisonment, a fine of Taka 50,000, or both for theft of electricity or equipment, and up to five years' imprisonment or a fine of up to Taka five lakh for vandalism or damage to solar panels. Illegal connections and obstructing personnel involved in solar power system operations are also punishable offenses.
The ordinance further protects the government, competent authorities, and their officials from civil or criminal cases for actions taken in good faith under the ordinance, even if such actions cause or are likely to cause harm.