Accra:Roads and Highways Department An initiative has been launched to install solar power panels on the rooftops of more than 400 buildings belonging to the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) to enhance renewable energy use in government facilities.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the solar panels, with a capacity of 5,144 kilowatts (kW), will be installed in phases from the current fiscal year to the 2029-30 fiscal year. This initiative aims to reduce electricity costs for government offices, decrease dependence on the national grid, lower carbon emissions, and contribute to the nation's renewable energy targets.
RHD officials have reported that solar power systems with a combined capacity of 410 kW are already operational at different RHD facilities, generating approximately 25,000 units of electricity per month. For the current fiscal year 2026-27, tenders are being invited for the installation of solar power systems with a capacity of 284 kW. Preparations are also underway to install further systems with a capacity of 960 kW.
The roadmap for solar power capacity installation targets 1,244 kW in the 2026-27 fiscal year, 1,200 kW in 2027-28 and 2028-29, and 1,500 kW in the 2029-30 fiscal year, totaling 5,144 kW over four fiscal years. The initiative also includes plans to develop projects for megawatt-scale solar power plants using unused open spaces.
Moniruzzaman, RHD Chief Engineer, emphasized that installing solar panels on government building rooftops allows electricity generation without additional land. Using the generated electricity during the day will reduce dependence on the national grid and lead to cost savings and enhanced energy management efficiency.
Experts see this initiative as well-aligned with the nation's renewable energy goals. Muzaffar Ahmed, Chairman of the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA), highlighted the importance of increasing solar energy use to achieve Bangladesh's 'net-zero' climate goal by 2050. SREDA's Renewable Energy Policy 2025 targets 20 percent renewable energy in total electricity generation by 2030 and 30 percent by 2040.
The success of this initiative will depend on effective operation, maintenance of solar power systems, efficient electricity use, and proper grid integration. Regular evaluations of electricity generation data and cost savings will be crucial in assessing the project's effectiveness.