Bangladesh’s renewable energy expansion is set to accelerate as the government moves to install rooftop solar systems in public buildings across 21 districts in a fresh push to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and strengthen domestic electricity generation capacity.
State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit said the initiative will cover key government facilities, including offices of Deputy Commissioners, Police Superintendents and district hospitals. He said the installations are expected to be completed within two to three months.
The announcement came while he was virtually inaugurating rooftop solar installation at Zobaida Korim Jute Mills Limited in Faridpur on Saturday, highlighting what officials described as a growing shift towards cleaner industrial and public-sector energy use.
According to project details, JA Solar International Ltd has installed a 4.29 MW solar power system at the facility. The system is designed to enhance on-site electricity generation efficiency and reduce dependence on conventional grid power. Another system using SMA Solar Technology AG equipment (Model: STP-110-60) will be installed with net metering facilities, allowing excess electricity to be fed back into the grid.
Officials present at the event included Power Secretary Minara Mahrukh and Noor Ahmed, Additional Secretary and Chairman of West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited. The state minister also joined a separate views-exchange meeting with government officials during the programme.
Amit said the government is pursuing multiple renewable energy initiatives as part of a broader strategy to reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels, which continue to expose Bangladesh to global energy price volatility and supply chain pressures.
Energy analysts note that rising international fuel costs and fluctuating oil markets have increased pressure on South Asian economies, making solar and other renewable investments more attractive for long-term grid stability and cost control. In this context, Bangladesh’s district-level solar rollout is seen as part of a wider structural shift in its power sector planning.
