Unleashing the potential of renewable energy for a sustainable future

In the wake of pressing global climate challenges, Bangladesh recognizes the crucial need for a robust shift towards renewable energy. This urgency is fueled by the latest resolutions from the global community, notably during COP29 at Baku, where world leaders underscored the necessity of transitioning towards sustainable energy systems to mitigate climate impacts. For Bangladesh, the shift is not just a global commitment but a strategic imperative, vital for securing its environmental sustainability and economic resilience.

Bangladesh's particular vulnerability to climate change effects, such as rising sea levels and increased frequency of extreme weather events, necessitates this transition. There is a unique opportunity for Bangladesh to lead by example in the South Asian region by innovating in renewable energy technologies and infrastructure.

Solar

As Bangladesh seeks sustainable solutions to meet its growing energy demands, the country's renewable energy sector emerges as a key area with vast potential. Situated in a region with high solar irradiance and significant wind and hydro resources, Bangladesh is uniquely positioned to transform its energy landscape, setting the stage for a deeper dive into how these resources can be effectively harnessed to fuel the nation’s future.

Bangladesh's potential for solar energy is compelling, underpinned by its geographic and climatic advantages that are conducive to large-scale solar deployment, receiving substantial solar irradiance with daily levels ranging from 4 to 6.5 kWh/m².

There are ambitious targets to install up to 40 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity by 2041. This plan is structured around a multi-tiered approach that includes enhancing solar hubs, electric utilities, and private developments, alongside significant contributions from rooftop installations and solar-powered irrigation systems. For instance, the utilization of just 1% of the surface area of the Kaptai dam for floating solar technology could contribute nearly 500 MW to the country’s solar capacity.

Wind

Building on its solar energy initiatives, Bangladesh's geographical endowments also position it to harness wind energy effectively. The extensive coastlines and river systems provide fertile ground for wind energy projects.

The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) has actively explored this potential, demonstrated by the operational 1,000 kW wind battery hybrid power plant in Kutubdia and a 0.9 MW grid-connected wind turbine at the Muhuri Dam in Feni. These projects not only utilize local wind resources but also incorporate innovative solutions such as battery storage to manage the intermittent nature of wind power.

Further emphasizing the scale of potential, studies conducted by the Coastal Development Partnership, funded by Bread for the World of Germany, estimate that wind energy could contribute up to 150 GW, particularly when harnessing the higher wind speeds recorded by the Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies (BCAS).

Hydropower

Complementing the efforts in solar and wind energy, Bangladesh also taps into its water resources to develop hydropower solutions. Though modest compared to other renewable sources, hydropower remains a strategic contributor to the energy portfolio. Key sites for micro-hydropower plants, such as Sitakunda, Richang, and Toibang in the greater Chittagong area, can generate 500–3,500 MW using flow turbines or water wheels.

Bangladesh also has significant potential for tidal and wave energy, particularly in coastal zones. Tidal ranges in Cox’s Bazar and the islands of Maheshkhali and Kutubdia average 4–5 metres, with spring tides exceeding 6 metres, creating ideal conditions for tidal energy projects.

Biomass and biogas

Rounding out the renewable energy portfolio, Bangladesh’s agricultural sector offers abundant biomass resources. With materials like rice husk, crop residue, wood, jute sticks, and extensive amounts of animal and municipal waste, the country is well-equipped to generate power from biomass.

In rural areas, where a significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line and depends heavily on livestock, biogas production potential remains largely untapped. Organic waste can be transformed into a reliable and sustainable energy supply through biogas technologies, offering significant environmental advantages by reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

As Bangladesh sets its sights on ambitious renewable energy targets, the successful implementation of these goals hinges on robust policy frameworks and the mitigation of both technical and economic challenges.

To truly capitalize on its renewable potential, it is crucial that policies not only prioritize but also clearly define the expansion of genuinely renewable resources. All plans need to be supported by consistent policy reinforcement, innovative financing models, and infrastructural advancements that can address the intermittency issues associated with renewable power and integrate them seamlessly into the national grid.

For Bangladesh, it is imperative that the government, in collaboration with private stakeholders and international partners, develops and implements policies that encourage investment in renewable technologies, streamline regulatory processes, and foster a conducive environment for the growth of renewable energy.

Overcoming these challenges will not only bolster Bangladesh's energy security but also position it as a leader in sustainable energy within the global community, demonstrating a pro-active approach to climate change mitigation and sustainable development.

News Link: A cleaner future