[Khulna, March 6, 2025] – To raise awareness about the stability and future planning of the energy sector, a divisional meeting on "Alternative Energy Planning" was held today at Hotel Western Inn, Khulna, jointly organized by Prantojon, the Coastal Livelihood and Environmental Action Network (CLEAN), and the Bangladesh Working Group on Ecology and Development (BWGED). The seminar featured in-depth discussions on alternative possibilities in the energy sector, short- and long-term planning, and the future prospects of a sustainable energy system in Bangladesh.
The keynote presentation on alternative energy planning was delivered by Mr. Hasan Mehedi, Chief Executive of CLEAN. He emphasized- ‘The annual electricity demand has been increasing 6.5% - 8.3% annually which may come down to 5% and 4% by 2030 and 2040. Given this trend, the demand may reach 128 TWh by 2030, 231 TWh by 2041 and 318 TWh by 2050.’
He added that- ‘Bangladesh has an untapped goldmine on its rooftops. Bangladesh’s industrial sector holds the potential to harness 5,000 MW of rooftop solar, generating 8,100 million units of clean electricity annually. Additionally, individual households could contribute 25,000 MW, producing a staggering 48,620 MW per year. This strategic shift towards sustainable and efficient energy planning will reduce the expansion of fossil fuels.’
The event was graced by Mohammad Yousuf Ali, Deputy Director (Local Govt.), DC Office, Khulna as the Chief Guest. The Special Guests included Engr. Motiur Rahman, PD & Head, Renewable energy division, West Zone Power Distribution (WZPDCL), Sanjoy Roy, DGM, Khulna Palli Bidyut Samity, Ainal Hoque, Assistant Director, DSS Khulna, and Professor Anwarul Kadir. The event was facilitated by Gouranga Nandy, Chairman, Centre for Environment and Participatory Research (CEPR).
The discussion session featured insightful exchanges on alternative energy possibilities in Bangladesh’s power and energy sector, the adoption of renewable energy, and existing challenges. The speakers underscored the importance of a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system and called for effective policy-level initiatives to ensure its implementation.
For Downloading the Press Release