The government has placed renewable energy at the heart of a major industrial development project after approving a Tk4,189.46 crore infrastructure package for the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ) in Anwara, Chattogram.
During a meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), Prime Minister Tarique Rahman directed authorities to make solar-based renewable energy a mandatory component of the project, aiming to promote cleaner and more sustainable industrial growth.
The premier instructed implementing agencies to install solar panels throughout the economic zone and ensure that renewable energy plays a significant role in powering future industrial activities. The directive reflects the government’s growing emphasis on integrating sustainability into large-scale infrastructure and investment projects.
State Minister for Planning Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki said the project received approval subject to incorporating the Prime Minister’s environmental and energy-related directives. Alongside renewable energy integration, authorities have been asked to establish a comprehensive waste management system and install advanced effluent treatment facilities capable of recycling and reusing treated water.
The approved project, titled Supporting Infrastructure Project for Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone, is designed to accelerate industrialisation and attract foreign investment. Of the total project cost, Tk1,722.20 crore will be financed by the government, while Tk2,467.26 crore will come through foreign loans and grants.
Officials said the inclusion of solar energy infrastructure is expected to reduce reliance on conventional power sources, lower the environmental footprint of industrial operations and support Bangladesh’s broader transition towards sustainable energy use.
The project is also expected to create a modern industrial ecosystem by combining transportation infrastructure, utility services and environmentally responsible energy solutions, making the CEIZ one of the country's most sustainability-focused economic zones.
