Energy minister targets 10,000 MW solar power generation in five years

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood Tuku on Thursday announced a major policy initiative aimed at accelerating Bangladesh’s transition towards solar and renewable energy, saying the government is preparing comprehensive reforms to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and expand clean electricity generation.

Speaking at the inauguration of the “Power, Energy and Infrastructure Expo” at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre, the minister said Bangladesh had fallen behind regional neighbours in renewable energy adoption, while countries such as India and Pakistan had significantly expanded solar and wind power capacity.

He said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had instructed the government to prioritise renewable energy development immediately after assuming office, with a strong focus on solar and wind energy projects.

“Bangladesh is now ready to move forward in solar energy. The biggest challenge is policy support,” the minister said.

Tuku revealed that the government has already formed a specialised committee to finalise a new renewable energy policy framework. According to him, the foundation of the policy has been completed and the guidelines are expected to be finalised this month before being placed before the cabinet for approval in June.

He compared the proposed renewable energy reforms to the policy incentives that helped transform Bangladesh’s ready-made garment industry in the 1980s through bonded warehouse facilities and back-to-back letters of credit.

“If proper policy support is ensured, a revolution in solar power is possible,” he added.

The minister said authorities are also working to simplify the import process for solar-related equipment, including photovoltaic panels, inverters and mounting structures, to make renewable energy investments more accessible to entrepreneurs and private companies.

He stressed the importance of battery storage systems, saying renewable energy expansion would require efficient storage solutions to meet electricity demand during evening peak hours.

Officials are also considering tax incentives aimed at lowering project costs and encouraging private investment in solar infrastructure.

The government has set a target of generating 10,000 megawatts of renewable electricity over the next five years, according to the minister.

Tuku also outlined plans to expand rooftop solar systems across Dhaka and other major cities under a net metering framework.

Under the proposed model, private companies would install solar panels on rooftops and supply electricity directly to building owners, while monthly electricity bills would be adjusted through the national grid.

The minister said the initiative could create a commercially viable market for investors while reducing pressure on the country’s urban power supply network.

Among those present at the event were Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority Chairman Muzaffar Ahmed, Bangladesh Sustainable and Renewable Energy Association President Mostafa Al Mahmud, Forum for Energy Reporters Bangladesh Chairman M Azizur Rahman and Mostafa Kamal, editor of Khaberer Kagoj.

Organisers said the three-day international exhibition will continue until Saturday, featuring around 140 companies and organisations from 12 countries showcasing technologies, products and services related to power, energy, construction and infrastructure development.