Environment Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury said the government is promoting the use of renewable energy and reducing reliance on coal for power generation as part of implementing a green, clean, and climate-resilient economy.
"5,000 MW of electricity can be saved if renewable energy can be used for irrigation in the country," said the minister at the 2nd Dhaka Renewable Energy Financing Talk, organized by Change Initiative at the Bangabandhu Military Museum in the capital on Saturday, June 1.
He said due to a lack of land, initiatives are being taken to set up floating solar panels in ponds or water bodies, or to install solar panels on the roofs of houses.
The minister emphasized that the government is committed to increasing the production and use of renewable energy to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.
"We are encouraging the private sector to invest in renewable energy projects. The government has set a target of producing 40 percent of our electricity from renewable sources by 2041. This goal is crucial for ensuring energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability," Saber said.
Highlighting the need for cooperation among all sectors of society to achieve this vision, the minister stressed the importance of investment in renewable energy infrastructure and technology, including solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower technology.
"To attract both domestic and international investors, we need to create a supportive environment with financial incentives and transparency," the minister added.
The minister noted that renewable energy not only reduces carbon emissions but also creates employment, improves public health, and enhances the quality of life.
Minister Chowdhury highlighted the importance of innovative financial instruments such as green bonds, climate funds, and public-private partnerships in this transformation.
"We expect grants, not loans, from the developed world. The role of research and development in this sector is very important. By building strong partnerships and taking bold action, we can make renewable energy a cornerstone of our nation's progress and prosperity," said Saber.
UAE Special Ambassador to Bangladesh Abdulla Ali Abdulla Khaseif AlHmoudi, Planning Commission's Industry and Energy Division Member Mostafizur Rahman, Sustainable Renewable Energy Development Authority's Chairman Munira Sultana, East West University Faculty of Business and Economics Professor A K Enamul Haque, and Change Initiative's CEO Zakir Hussain Khan, among others, spoke at the event. Alternative Law Elective's Research Director Jain Moulvi presented the keynote paper at the program.
Awards were presented to investigative journalists, including Bangladesh First's Senior Correspondent Sadiqur Rahman, at the event.
