The government has set an ambitious target to generate 30 per cent of Bangladesh’s electricity from renewable energy sources by 2040, as part of its long-term plan to build a more sustainable and environmentally friendly power system.
Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood Tuku made the announcement in Parliament on Sunday while responding to a scripted question from ruling party lawmaker Khairul Kabir Khokon (Narsingdi-1) during the question-and-answer session.
The minister said the country’s current installed renewable energy capacity stands at 1,781.09 megawatts (MW), reflecting gradual progress in expanding clean energy infrastructure.
He informed the House that under the Renewable Energy Policy 2025, Bangladesh aims to generate 20 per cent of its total electricity from renewable sources by 2030, before increasing the share to 30 per cent by 2040.
According to him, the policy framework promotes a mix of grid-connected solar power, rooftop solar systems, and floating solar projects to accelerate the transition toward low-carbon electricity generation.
The policy also introduces measures to encourage private sector participation. Under the Policy for Enhancing Private Sector Participation in Renewable Energy-Based Power Generation, 2025, private investors will be allowed to establish renewable energy plants and sell electricity either through government distribution networks or directly to large and bulk consumers.
The minister added that 26 renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of 1,172 MW are currently under construction across the country. In addition, 15 more projects with a total capacity of 665 MW are under the tendering process and are expected to come online by 2029.
He further said the government has already set a broader long-term goal of achieving 10,000 MW of renewable energy capacity, underscoring its commitment to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and strengthening energy security through clean power expansion.
