Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday announced that Bangladesh is progressing towards a self-reliant energy system and green growth. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of an on-grid rooftop solar power project at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, he expressed optimism that Bangladesh will evolve into a model state of green and sustainable development through the expansion of solar power generation.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister emphasized that the launch of the one-megawatt rooftop solar power system at the Parliament building is a significant step towards clean energy, a green economy, and energy self-reliance. He believes this initiative will inspire both public and private institutions to join the journey towards clean energy.
He highlighted the symbolic significance of using solar energy at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn, as it represents the leadership in both policy and action. Bangladesh is striving for energy self-reliance amidst economic expansion, increasing industrialization, and growing electricity demand.
Rahman noted that Bangladesh faces climate challenges such as rising sea levels, irregular rainfall, cyclones, and river erosion, necessitating the shift to sustainable energy as an economic and national security imperative. He pointed out that Bangladesh receives substantial solar radiation, offering potential for renewable energy development in rooftops, industrial zones, and coastal areas.
The Prime Minister observed that the global cost of solar power generation has decreased significantly, making it both environmentally and economically viable. The inauguration of the project is a step in this broader journey towards sustainability.
The event also saw the formal inauguration of the solar power project by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, at the Prime Minister's request. Other dignitaries, including Power and Energy Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood, State Minister Aninda Islam Amit, and Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni, addressed the gathering.
The ceremony was attended by several ministers, lawmakers, whips, and officials from the Parliament Secretariat, among others, reflecting a collective commitment to advancing Bangladesh's clean energy goals.