Expedited RE Expansion Essential To Ensure Energy Security

Bangladesh in its Integrated Energy and Power System Master Plan (IEPMP) has set a target to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2070 or beyond.

- Siddique Zobair

Hence finalizing the plan for phasing out fossil fuel is no longer a priority for Bangladesh. Increasing contribution of renewable energy (RE) for ensuring energy security is essential now rather than considering it important for addressing climate change. Work is in progress in this regard. Relevant people are optimistic that there will be a considerable achievement toward this goal by 2030. Siddique Zobair, former member of SREDA and International Consultant at Alternate Energy, said this in an exclusive interview with Mollah Amzad Hossain, Editor of Energy & Power.

What are your views about the commitment and sincerity of policymakers and bureaucracy about smooth development of RE in Bangladesh?

Please note that the political leadership, including the honorable Prime Minister, is totally committed to the development of renewable energy and clean energy. It is challenging to achieve the target but there is no issue of sincerity with political leadership. But for reasons unknown, the bureaucracy is not yet fully convinced to battle the challenges and expansion of RE. Though the necessary policy directives have been already given yet required dynamism has not been created for expansion of the RE. We need to bear in mind that envisioned success cannot be achieved unless people involved in the process own the initiatives.

It is being said that the cost of generation of solar power is much higher than other countries. The cost of equipment and accessories has already been reduced in other countries. Bangladesh can not avail that opportunity for lack of transparency in the selection of entrepreneurs. How will you evaluate this?