Dhaka: The energy ministry’s Power Division signed memoranda of understanding (MoU) with five ministries and divisions today to install rooftop solar power panels at educational institutions and hospitals nationwide. This initiative aims to boost renewable energy production.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the MoU was signed at Bidyut Bhaban, witnessed by Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Dr. Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan. He emphasized the importance of quickly completing the panel installations and connecting them to the national power grid by February next year to ensure the flow of surplus power generated.
The initiative, operating under the OPEX model, allows institutions to subscribe to the service without bearing installation expenses. This approach is expected to reduce reliance on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) as solar power becomes more prominent in the energy mix. Dr. Khan noted a 50 million cubic feet increase in production over the last six months, yet LNG imports continue to meet the shortfall.
The primary and mass education ministry, health services division, secondary and higher education division, technical and madrasah education division, and women and family welfare division signed the MoU with the power division. These organizations will implement the ‘National Rooftop Solar Programme Initiative B,’ targeting educational institutions and health facilities.
The introduction of solar systems is anticipated to significantly lower electricity bills for these institutions. The government aims to generate 2000-3000 megawatts of electricity under categories ‘A’ and ‘B’ through this initiative. Dr. Khan highlighted the growing role of solar power in global energy production, citing that 75 percent of electricity in neighboring Sri Lanka comes from solar power.
He urged distribution companies to prepare for the tender process for electricity generation from renewable sources. A representative from a state-run company mentioned that tenders would be invited within the next 35 days.
Power division secretary Farzana Momtaz revealed that 308 square feet of roof space is available across 46,854 institutions under category ‘B,’ with the potential to generate 1,451 MW of electricity. Tenders have already been invited, and project implementation is expected to start before December.
Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) Chairman Rezaul Karim confirmed that tenders were invited after verifying space through distribution companies. An official from the Rural Electrification Board (REB) stated that they could generate 1,064 MW of power from roofs under their jurisdiction.
Officials explained that bidders would invest in the projects, with commercial banks and financing institutions providing financial support. Discussions have been held with commercial banks to secure low-interest loans under the Green Finance Fund.