Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture in its development journey, where energy, equity, and environment intersect in profound ways. As the country aspires to become a prosperous, climate-resilient nation by 2041, it faces the dual challenge of sustaining economic growth while responding to the escalating climate crisis. Central to this transition is the need to reform the energy sector in a way that is just, inclusive, and people-centred. A just energy transition is not merely about replacing fossil fuels with renewables; it is about transforming the energy system to serve all citizens equitably, create decent livelihoods, and uphold environmental sustainability.

A just energy transition recognises that energy is more than a commodity-it is a public good and a human right. In Bangladesh, millions of people, particularly in rural, remote, and climate-vulnerable regions, still lack reliable access to electricity. Where access exists, quality and affordability remain major concerns. A transition that is truly people-centred must begin with the principle of universal energy access. This means prioritising off-grid renewable solutions, such as solar mini-grids and solar home systems, which can bring affordable and sustainable energy to underserved communities. Initiatives like the Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL)'s solar home system programme have already proven the potential of decentralised renewables in Bangladesh. Scaling such efforts and integrating them with digital technologies can ensure that no one is left behind.

However, access alone is not sufficient. The energy transition must also be a catalyst for decent work and inclusive economic opportunity. Fossil fuel industries, though limited in Bangladesh, still employ significant numbers of workers, especially in sectors like coal transport, fuel distribution, and diesel-powered irrigation. As the country moves toward renewable energy, a well-planned labour transition strategy is essential. Workers in fossil fuel-linked sectors must be supported through retraining, skills development, and pathways to green jobs. The expansion of the solar energy sector, energy-efficient appliances, and electric mobility presents new opportunities for employment. These emerging sectors can be designed to be more gender-inclusive and youth-friendly, aligning with Bangladesh's demographic dividend.Community empowerment lies at the heart of a just transition. The current energy system is highly centralised, dominated by state-owned utilities and large private sector actors. This structure often excludes local communities from decision-making and benefit-sharing. A shift toward community-owned or community-managed renewable energy projects can not only democratise the energy system but also build local resilience and accountability. For example, rural energy cooperatives, with support from local governments and NGOs, could manage mini-grids and revenue-sharing models. Such decentralised governance models have shown promise in countries like Nepal and India, and could be tailored to the Bangladeshi context.

Equity must be a guiding principle throughout the transition. Low-income households, slum dwellers, and people in disaster-prone areas often face the brunt of energy poverty. Without targeted policies, the transition could inadvertently deepen existing inequalities. Subsidies, pricing structures, and investment incentives must be designed to protect vulnerable groups. For instance, targeted subsidies for solar irrigation pumps can reduce costs for smallholder farmers while cutting emissions. Likewise, rooftop solar and battery storage systems in informal settlements can provide energy security and reduce reliance on costly and polluting diesel generators.

The energy transition must also engage with the realities of gender, migration, and informal work. Women and girls often bear the burden of energy scarcity, spending hours collecting fuel or managing household chores in low-light conditions. A people-centred energy system must address these gendered dimensions. Empowering women as clean energy entrepreneurs, technicians, and community leaders can enhance both energy access and gender equity. Similarly, climate-induced migration is displacing thousands from coastal and riverine areas to urban slums, where energy access is precarious. Urban planning must integrate affordable, clean energy services for these populations.

Bangladesh's unique geography and climate vulnerability demand that energy infrastructure be resilient. Cyclones, floods, river erosion, and salinity intrusions regularly disrupt power supply, destroy infrastructure, and displace communities. Clean energy systems must therefore be built with climate resilience in mind. For example, elevated solar panels, flood-resistant batteries, and portable clean energy kits can maintain services during disasters. Education, early warning systems, and disaster preparedness should be integrated into energy planning to ensure continuity of services and protect lives.

An inclusive transition also requires inclusive governance. Too often, energy planning and decision-making are technocratic, top-down, and opaque. A just transition calls for transparent, participatory processes that include local governments, trade unions, civil society, youth, and indigenous communities. Only through inclusive dialogue can policies reflect the needs and aspirations of all stakeholders. National energy plans, including the Integrated Energy and Power Master Plan (IEPMP), must be aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and the interests of frontline communities.

Finance plays a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the transition. Bangladesh currently spends billions on fossil fuel subsidies, particularly for imported LNG and oil. These subsidies are economically inefficient and environmentally harmful. Redirecting these funds toward renewables, energy efficiency, and green innovation can yield greater social and environmental returns. Climate finance, both public and private, must be mobilised to support inclusive energy investments. Development partners, multilateral banks, and climate funds should prioritise projects that deliver co-benefits-climate mitigation, social protection, and economic empowerment.

Moreover, Bangladesh must avoid falling into the trap of fossil fuel lock-in. The rapid expansion of LNG infrastructure, while aimed at energy security, risks creating stranded assets and long-term dependency on volatile global markets. Instead, the country should focus on diversifying its energy mix with a strong emphasis on solar, wind, and energy storage. Grid modernisation, demand-side management, and cross-border energy cooperation with neighbouring countries can also enhance system efficiency and resilience.

Education and public awareness are crucial components of a just transition. Citizens must be informed and engaged in shaping energy choices. Schools, media, and local campaigns can play a role in building energy literacy and climate consciousness. Empowered citizens are more likely to adopt clean technologies, hold institutions accountable, and contribute to sustainable solutions.

In conclusion, a just and people-centred energy transition in Bangladesh is both a moral imperative and a development opportunity. It requires more than technological fixes or financial investments-it demands a transformation in how we think about energy, development, and justice. By putting people at the centre, Bangladesh can build an energy future that is not only clean but also inclusive, equitable, and resilient. This is the promise of a just transition: power for the people, by the people, and for the planet.

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