Experts and development activists have stressed the urgent need to expand alternative energy systems to reduce pressure on Bangladesh’s power and fuel sector amid rising global energy instability and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The call came at a press conference jointly organised by Protibesh O Unnayan Forum and Paribartan Foundation at a restaurant in Rajshahi City on Sunday, where speakers said Bangladesh must accelerate its transition to renewable energy to ensure long-term energy security.
The organisations also placed a 13-point set of recommendations to the government, focusing on renewable energy expansion, policy support and infrastructure development.
Among the speakers were Protibesh O Unnayan Forum Vice-President and National Women Lawyers Association Director Advocate Dil Setara Chuni, General Secretary Rashed Ripon, Members Taiyebur Rahman and Pankaj Karmakar, and National Indigenous Council Secretary Bimal Rajoar.
They particularly emphasised expanding solar energy use in the Barind region for irrigation, saying it could significantly reduce dependence on diesel and help farmers cope with rising production costs.
They also urged the government to establish electric vehicle charging stations, especially for battery-run auto-rickshaws, to promote cleaner transport alternatives.
Other recommendations included full tax exemption on solar equipment in the upcoming national budget, provision of free solar systems for low-income households, and faster approval of renewable energy projects.
The speakers also called for national consensus on energy policy, increased incentives for renewable energy investment, rapid expansion of rooftop solar systems, and prioritisation of electric vehicles in the transport sector.
They said expanding solar irrigation and decentralised renewable energy systems could play a key role in reducing pressure on the national grid while ensuring sustainable energy access in rural areas.
