The demand for solar power in Bangladesh is increasing rapidly due to industrialization, an unstable fossil fuel market, and the need for environmental protection. From residential buildings to factories and even agriculture in remote areas, renewable energy is gaining widespread popularity.
Government policy support and technological availability have provided new momentum to this shift, which is playing a significant role in achieving the country’s long-term energy security. Experts say that solar power, as the most promising renewable energy source, is addressing the electricity crisis, ensuring energy security, and promoting environmentally friendly development. Once considered a lifeline for off-grid communities, solar power is now becoming an integral part of the national grid.
Revolution in Industry and Agriculture
According to industry owners, installing rooftop solar panels has proven to be an effective solution for ensuring uninterrupted power supply and reducing production costs. Many large factories in the textile and garment sector are already meeting a significant portion of their electricity demand from solar power. This has not only lowered their energy bills but also helped them maintain international standards through environmentally friendly production.
Net Metering Facility
To encourage rooftop solar adoption in industrial factories and residential buildings, the government has introduced a net metering policy. Under this system, customers can sell surplus electricity to the national grid after meeting their own needs. This initiative has gained huge popularity in the industrial sector.
A senior official of the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA) explained that industrial and commercial establishments are now able to sell excess power back to the grid, which has greatly encouraged private sector investment in solar energy. Bangladesh is already generating several hundred megawatts from this sector.
Rahimafrooz Distribution Limited (RDL), a longstanding player in the solar panel and battery business, is now producing and marketing IPS (Instant Power Supply) systems using both lead-acid and lithium batteries. These new IPS units can be charged from both the national grid and solar panels, significantly reducing electricity costs.
Industry Perspective
Nawaz Abdur Rahim, Head of Sales and Marketing at RDL, said:
“In Bangladesh, solar power is becoming a strategic solution for both the industrial and agricultural sectors. Rooftop solar panels not only ensure a stable power supply but also lower operational costs, giving factories a competitive edge. Gradually, fuel-powered generators are being replaced by solar-based solutions. Rahimafrooz has already installed a 100 kW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at BUET, which stores energy from the sun. We have also launched smaller BESS units for homes and small businesses, which are receiving positive feedback.”
He further added:
“Solar-powered irrigation pumps are helping farmers reduce costs, increase yields, and promote sustainable farming. With the net metering policy and new technologies, solar power will play a major role in cost-effective and environmentally friendly development in this sector.”
Amjad Hossain, a farmer from Gaibandha, shared his experience:
“Previously, I spent a lot of money each season on diesel for irrigation. Now, with my solar pump, those costs are almost zero. I can irrigate my fields during the day using sunlight.”
Government Targets and Major Projects
The government has set a target of generating 40% of the country’s electricity from renewable sources by 2041, with solar energy expected to play the leading role. Large-scale solar parks are being set up across the country through public and private initiatives.
Some of the notable projects include:
Teesta Solar Limited (200 MW), Gaibandha – currently the largest in Bangladesh
Mymensingh Solar Power (50 MW)
Sirajganj Solar Park (68 MW)
Kaptai Floating Solar Plant (7.4 MW)
Key Benefits
Reducing dependence on fossil fuels: Solar energy lowers reliance on imported gas, oil, and coal, strengthening energy security.
Technological advancement and cost reduction: Global solar panel prices have fallen by 80–90% in the past decade, while efficiency has improved, making installations more profitable.
Rural electrification: The Solar Home System has brought electricity to more than 6 million households, making it one of the most successful solar programs in the world.
Agricultural impact: Solar-powered irrigation pumps are reducing farmers’ costs and curbing environmental pollution.
Environmental commitment: Solar power supports Bangladesh’s climate goals by reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy use.
Challenges and Future Prospects
According to Nawaz Abdur Rahim,
“One major challenge in adopting solar power is ensuring proper implementation of mandatory installations. Sometimes, short-term cost-cutting compromises quality. Increasing transparency and accountability is vital to ensure consumer trust, safety, and the full benefits of solar energy.”
Overall, solar power is not only a solution to Bangladesh’s electricity crisis but also a key driver of sustainable, eco-friendly, and economically viable growth for the future.
