Cancelation Of Solar Project LOIs Erodes Investors' Confidence

The renewable energy capacity of Bangladesh can be developed up to 5,000MW by 2030, subject to policy support for investing in rooftop and irrigation solar systems alongside utility-scale ones.

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To promote rooftops, the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA) should formulate a bankable tripartite business model to attract private investment, while a guideline would be required for the installation of solar systems on the rooftops of government buildings. A business model for solar irrigation is also essential. Formulation of the models and guidelines would take only 1-2 months if the RE-friendly Energy Advisor launches an initiative, setting the stage for rapid expansion of solar energy through attracting private investment.

Mostafa Al Mahmud, President of the Bangladesh Sustainable and Renewable Energy Association (BSREA) and Chairman of Greentech Solution Limited, said this in an exclusive interview with Energy & Power Editor Mollah Amzad Hossain.

The government has released the draft RE policy 2025 in the public domain, seeking opinions from interested individuals or organizations. What are your observations? Have you already given your opinion?

BSREA has formed a committee to review the draft policy and suggest amendments and recommendations. The draft policy did not clarify many important matters. Some important areas like EV and energy storage require addressing in detail. We are going to recommend further clarifications on these issues. The draft policy did not provide directions for developing SREDA as a competent organization with skilled professionals. We are going to make specific recommendations for this.

The draft policy has recommended the exemption of tax and VAT on equipment and materials used for the generation of renewable energy. Do you consider these enough to remove the tariff barriers?