Rally Urges Implementation of Rooftop Solar Target Amid Bangladesh Energy Crisis

RAJSHAHI, BANGLADESH – As Bangladesh grapples with an unprecedented energy crisis, citizens and environmental advocates are intensifying calls for the government to embrace decentralized renewable solutions. In Rajshahi, a human chain protest recently urged the immediate implementation of a long-discussed target to install 5,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power on the rooftops of government buildings.

The demonstration, organized by the Rajshahi Environment and Development Forum, highlighted the critical role rooftop solar could play in alleviating the nation’s power woes, which have been exacerbated by volatile global fuel markets. Speakers at the rally demanded that rooftop solar systems be installed on all government offices, educational institutions, and hospitals nationwide, a move they argue could provide swift relief to the strained national grid.

This public pressure comes as the government itself has announced an ambitious plan to generate 10,000 MW of solar power within five years to combat the crisis. However, advocates point to a history of missed targets and bureaucratic hurdles, including high import duties on solar equipment, which they say have hindered wider adoption. According to the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), Bangladesh needs to deploy approximately 760 MW of new renewable energy annually between 2026 and 2030 just to meet its existing modest goals.

The energy crisis is not unique to Bangladesh, with geopolitical events accelerating the shift towards solar across Southeast Asia. Neighboring countries are also scaling up their solar ambitions in response to unreliable and expensive fossil fuel imports. For nations like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, which are heavily dependent on imported LNG and oil, rooftop solar offers a hedge against price volatility and a path toward greater energy independence.

“Implementation of the rooftop solar target is a timely, environmentally friendly, and economically vital step,” stated one advocate at the Rajshahi rally, echoing a sentiment shared by many who see untapped potential in the country’s vast roof space.

The government appears to be taking notice of the mounting pressure. In a significant move, officials are reportedly revisiting 31 previously cancelled renewable energy projects, including large-scale solar and wind farms, in an effort to boost power supply. Successful execution of these projects, combined with a robust rooftop solar program, could transform the country’s energy landscape.

The core demand from protesters is clear: move from ambitious targets to concrete action. By simplifying net-metering policies and providing administrative support, the government could unlock thousands of megawatts of clean, distributed power, creating green jobs and saving valuable foreign currency in the process.

Sources for Rooftop solar Bangladesh

1. Rajshahi forum demands 5000MW rooftop solar on govt …
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6. Govt revisits 31 cancelled renewable projects to boost …