Dhaka:Bangladesh holds the potential to generate 132.61 megawatt-peak (MWp) of solar electricity from rooftops at universities, colleges, and municipal areas, as highlighted by energy experts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, experts emphasized the need for private investment, investment security, and policy support to expand renewable energy, reduce electricity generation costs, and enhance energy security. At a special citizen dialogue, it was revealed that 31 public universities could install 52.50 MWp of rooftop solar power, and 150 colleges could generate 51.12 MWp. Additionally, Rajshahi City Corporation and Shailkupa Municipality have the potential for 24.63 MWp and 4.36 MWp, respectively.
The special citizen dialogue, organized by the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) and the University Grants Commission (UGC), was held at Dhaka Reporters Unity. CAB Energy Adviser Professor M Shamsul Alam delivered the keynote address, and Professor Engineer Shihab Uddin presented the main paper. Power Division Secretary Mirana Mahrukh and other stakeholders from various sectors also attended.
Rooftop solar power is seen as an effective alternative due to limited land availability and rising electricity demand. Utilizing rooftops of educational institutions, commercial establishments, and other structures can increase electricity generation without additional land acquisition. Professor M Shamsul Alam discussed reducing solar power generation costs and the economic viability of such investments, highlighting the levelised cost of electricity across various areas.
A proposed operating expenditure (OPEX) model suggests that investors would establish facilities, supply equipment, and finance operations, recovering costs through electricity sales. The projects are estimated to generate significant electricity over 20 years, with potential sales revenue reaching Tk 2,777 crore.
Investors at the dialogue called for investment security, predictable financial returns, resolution of bureaucratic issues, and stable tariffs and incentives. Professor Alam proposed forming a committee to coordinate investor activities and stressed the importance of regulatory oversight and private sector collaboration.
Mirana Mahrukh noted the essential role of renewable energy in addressing electricity shortages and reducing import dependency. She outlined recent government initiatives, including tax benefits and incentives, attracting thousands of new investors. The dialogue also highlighted the environmental benefits of the proposed projects, such as significant reductions in carbon dioxide emissions over 20 years.
The discussion concluded with proposals to develop educational institutions into hubs for solar power training and services and to establish solar service centers at public universities, emphasizing consumer interests and investor viability.