Dhaka: Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) has entered into a Transaction Advisory Services Agreement (TASA) with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to set up a Ground Mounted Solar PV project, ranging from 100 to 200 MW, at the National Special Economic Zone (NSEZ) on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) basis.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a summary of the agreement was also signed with the Economic Relations Division (ERD), as mentioned in a press release. The ceremony, held in the BEZA conference room, was presided over by BEZA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun and attended by ADB Country Director Hoe Yun Jeong, along with representatives from ERD, the Power Division, Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), and the PPP Authority.
This initiative marks a significant step towards developing the NSEZ into a ‘Green Economic Zone’ that emphasizes environmental sustainability. The project will include the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and a battery energy storage system (ESS) in Sonagazi Upazila, located in the Feni part of NSEZ. It is set to be the first solar power project in Bangladesh to operate under the PPP framework.
The project aligns with the Renewable Energy Policy-2025 and aims to boost the country’s renewable energy production. Ashik Chowdhury highlighted the project’s milestone significance for BEZA and the Bangladesh government, emphasizing its role in the economic zone’s implementation under the PPP framework.
To facilitate successful implementation, a special committee has been formed for inter-ministerial coordination, and ADB has been requested to expedite necessary studies and present the project to both domestic and international investors. This initiative supports the government’s ‘Zero Net Carbon Emissions’ goal, with BEZA working to ensure environmental protection while promoting industrialization and investment expansion.