Apr 19, 2025
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In a bold call for energy reform, Jalal Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission, stressed the urgent need to shift away from costly fossil fuel imports and embrace renewable energy solutions—led by the country’s youth.
He made the remarks while speaking at the grand finale of the Green Energy Olympiad 2025 (GEO 2025), he highlighted the unsustainable economic burden of importing LNG at Tk75 and selling it at Tk12–17, advocating rooftop solar installations in the garment sector as a viable and cost-effective alternative.
“We are making strong efforts to install rooftop solar systems in the garment sector by 2026,” said Ahmed. “Youth-led green energy initiatives are vital, and now is the time to give renewable energy the priority it truly deserves.”
Held at the Bangladesh Military Museum, GEO 2025 marked the country’s first large-scale national competition focused on environmental protection, climate change awareness, and renewable energy leadership. The two-day event brought together around 4,900 students from 150 colleges and universities across six phases of rigorous evaluation based on knowledge, analysis, and policy insight.
Organized jointly by the Bangladesh Working Group on Ecology and Development (BWGED) and the Coastal Livelihood and Environmental Action Network (CLEAN), the Olympiad served not just as a competition but as a national platform for empowering youth to contribute to climate solutions.
Jalal Ahmed further emphasised the affordability of solar technology, stating, “The cost of solar energy is now within reach, and the pending approval of the Merchant Power Plant policy will help accelerate the country’s renewable energy transition.”
Zahidul Alam, Vice President of the Bangladesh Solar and Renewable Energy Association (BSREA), echoed the sentiment, noting that solar home system costs have dropped nearly tenfold since their introduction. “Rooftop solar can meet a substantial portion of industrial electricity demand. However, to reach our 40% renewable energy target, we must also invest in wind power,” he added.
Moderating the session, Hasan Mehedi, Chief Executive of CLEAN, underscored the broader significance of energy policy. “Bangladesh’s energy future is not just about generation—it is about justice, environmental integrity, and securing the future for generations to come.”
Olympiad Champion Arafat Zulfiqar from Rajshahi Medical College praised the event as a platform for unity and leadership. “The Green Energy Olympiad brought together students from across the country. Let this sustainable movement for renewable energy continue to grow.”
As Bangladesh navigates its path toward energy resilience, GEO 2025 stands out as a milestone in engaging the next generation in shaping a just, local, and sustainable energy future.
News Link: Urgent need to shift from costly LNG to rooftop solar: BERC Chief Jalal Ahmed