Renewable Energy

By renewable energy in Bangladesh, we mean an energy source that is continuously renewed by nature and never runs out. Such as sunlight, wind, rivers or streams, ocean waves, biomass (agricultural waste, organic matter), etc. The biggest advantage of using this type of energy is that it is environmentally friendly, reduces carbon emissions, and does not depend on limited reserves like fossil fuels. Renewable energy is being considered one of the main solutions to address the challenges of climate change, global warming, and energy security in the current world.

The use of renewable energy around the world is increasing rapidly. Developed countries are turning to solar and wind power, and developing countries are also investing heavily in this sector. On the one hand, it is helping to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and on the other hand, it is also bringing economic benefits in the long term. Bangladesh is not far behind. Renewable energy is now an important topic of discussion to meet the country's growing electricity demand and reduce the pressure of imported fossil fuels.

What is renewable energy?

It is energy that is repeatedly generated by nature's own processes, such as sunlight or wind.

Global Importance
Renewable energy is essential to combat climate change, reduce pollution, and ensure sustainable development.

Bangladesh context
Renewable energy is becoming increasingly important in Bangladesh due to rapid urbanization, increasing electricity demand, and limitations of fossil fuels.

Renewable Energy in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is a developing country with a large population and a constantly increasing demand for electricity. Currently, most of the country's electricity generation is dependent on gas and coal. But natural gas reserves are limited and the use of coal is harmful to the environment. Therefore, renewable energy is being turned towards as a sustainable solution.

The government has already taken various initiatives to increase renewable energy. The Power Development Board (BPDB) and IDCOL have so far installed millions of Solar Home Systems (SHS), which has revolutionized rural electrification. In addition, mini-grids, solar-powered irrigation systems, and solar power systems in off-grid areas have also been introduced.

Although solar energy is the most widely used source in Bangladesh, some electricity is also generated from wind power, hydropower and biomass. Although the potential for wind power is limited in coastal areas, it is still at a limited level. Small-scale hydropower projects have been successful in some areas.

Current Contribution

The contribution of renewable sources to the country's total electricity generation is relatively small but is gradually increasing.

Government policy
As per Vision 2041, there are plans to generate a significant share from renewable energy.

Role of the private sector
Organizations like Grameen Shakti, Rahimafrooz are making a major contribution in this sector.

Various Sources
Although solar energy is the main source so far, wind and biomass can play a major role in the future.

Solar Energy and its Importance

Bangladesh is geographically located in a country where sunlight is available almost all year round. On average, about 4.5–5 kWh/m² of solar radiation is available per day, which is sufficient for electricity generation. As a result, solar energy is considered the most promising source of renewable energy in Bangladesh.

The biggest advantage of using solar energy is that it is environmentally friendly. There are no harmful emissions like coal or gas, which reduces air pollution and greenhouse gases. In rural and remote areas where the national grid is difficult to reach, the Solar Home System has provided a revolutionary solution. Not only lighting the house, but also mobile charging, small fans, and TVs are possible.

Currently, the trend of using solar energy is increasing in urban areas as well. Solar panels are being used in government and private offices, schools and colleges, hospitals and even industrial factories.

Reasons for the popularity of solar energy
Bangladesh has abundant sunlight, the cost of technology is decreasing, and it is becoming more accessible due to government subsidies.

Environmental benefits
Using solar energy reduces air pollution, reduces carbon emissions, and helps combat climate change.

Advantages of electricity generation
Low cost in the long run, easy to maintain, and easy to use in off-grid areas.

Solar Bangladesh Initiative

The Solar Bangladesh Initiative is considered an important chapter in the expansion of renewable energy in Bangladesh. Over the past decade, the government, private institutions and NGOs have undertaken several projects to bring solar power to rural and remote areas of the country. As a result, the use of solar energy is increasing not only for lighting homes, but also in small businesses, educational institutions, health centers, and even in agriculture. For this reason, solar energy can no longer be called just an alternative source; it is now an essential element of Bangladesh's energy security.

The biggest success among the government projects is the Solar Home System (SHS), which has provided electricity to more than 6 million families in the country. In addition, a solar-powered pump project has been undertaken to use solar energy for irrigation, which is reducing dependence on diesel in agriculture and also reducing farmers' costs. The government is installing solar mini-grids to provide electricity to islands and remote areas, where it is almost impossible to reach the national grid.

Private enterprises are also playing an equally important role in this sector. Many other organizations including Grameen Shakti, Rahimafrooz, IDCOL are working to expand solar power. They are not only selling panels, but also providing installation, maintenance and easy installment financing facilities for customers. NGOs are highlighting the benefits of solar power among rural people and making them aware of the use of technology.

These initiatives are changing the quality of life of the rural population. Where earlier it used to be dark after dusk, now shops are open, children can study, health centers can provide services even at night. In addition, small entrepreneurs are able to expand their businesses using solar power.

Government projects
Solar Home System, solar-powered irrigation pumps, solar mini-grid projects.

Private initiatives
Various organizations including Grameen Shakti, Rahimafrooz, IDCOL are working to expand solar power.

Rural Electrification
People are opening the door to new possibilities through solar electrification in remote islands, char areas and hilly areas.

Therefore, the Solar Bangladesh initiative is not just a power project, but a milestone in Bangladesh's sustainable development, poverty reduction, and rural economic development. In the future, more modern technology and investment will further strengthen this sector.

Different types of solar panels

Currently, different types of solar panels are being used in Bangladesh, but their efficiency, price and application areas are different. There are mainly five types of panels that are more common in the market - Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, Thin-Film, PERC and Bifacial Solar Panel. Although monocrystalline panels are ahead in efficiency and durability, the price is relatively high. Although polycrystalline panels are cost-effective, their efficiency decreases slightly with temperature. On the other hand, Thin-Film technology panels are light and flexible, which is suitable for installation in large areas. Recently, PERC technology is becoming popular in the market because it works well even in low light and is durable in the long term. Bifacial panels are modern technology that generates electricity from both sides and although the efficiency is much higher, the price is relatively high. Therefore, it is very important to choose the right type of solar panel depending on the user's needs, budget and location.

Solar panel installation

The demand for solar panel installation is increasing in Bangladesh. It is gaining popularity as an effective solution for off-grid electrification, especially in rural areas. In the installation process, a site survey is first conducted, where the roof orientation, sunlight flow and space for panel installation are checked. Then, panels, inverters, batteries and other equipment are selected as required.

Installation process

• Site survey
• Panel setup
• Inverter and battery connection
• System testing

Cost structure
The total cost depends on the capacity of the panels, number of batteries, quality of the inverter and labor costs.

Common Problems
If not cleaned regularly, efficiency decreases, battery life is limited, and there is a risk of damage in storms and rains.

Caution
Use quality equipment, have the installation done by an experienced technician, and install the panels in a location that receives more sunlight.

Future Plans and Prospects

The potential for renewable energy in Bangladesh is limitless. The government has set a goal of ensuring a significant share of the country's electricity generation from renewable energy by 2041. In the future, floating solar plants, wind farms, smart grids and modern storage technologies will play an important role in this sector.

Investment opportunities
The interest of local and international investors in the renewable energy sector is increasing.

New technologies
Floating Solar Plant, Offshore Wind Energy, Biomass Gasification, etc.

Sustainable development
The contribution of renewable energy to environmental protection, job creation and economic development is immense. Renewable energy is essential for the future of Bangladesh. There is no alternative to using renewable energy to reduce the limitations of fossil fuels and environmental damage. However, for this, along with government policies, the participation of the general public is also essential.

Importance
The use of renewable energy is essential for sustainable development and combating climate change.

People's participation
Raising awareness, encouraging the use of solar panels and accepting government support are necessary.

Contribution
Renewable energy can provide a permanent solution to environmental protection, electricity security and economic development.

Renewable energy in Bangladesh is not only an alternative for power generation, but also a major tool for sustainable development, environmental protection, and building a safer world for future generations. Using solar energy, wind energy, biomass, and hydropower together will help meet the country's electricity deficit and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels to a large extent. The Solar Bangladesh initiative has already changed the lives of millions of people, especially in rural and remote areas. In the future, with modern technology, government support, and increased public participation, Bangladesh will be able to achieve energy security through renewable energy. Therefore, it is time to include renewable energy more strongly in the list of national priorities and encourage every citizen to consciously increase its use.