Bangladesh Witnesses Surge In large-scale PV Projects
The authorities of Bangladesh have approved multiple large-scale PV projects as part of their efforts to boost renewable energy in the country and meet energy and climate targets. This surge in projects is attributed to recent measures supporting domestic independent power producers in establishing and running new renewable energy facilities.
Notably, the solar project portfolio in the country has expanded by an additional 300 MW capacity across three distinct projects. Furthermore, the Bangladeshi cabinet recently gave the green light to two 100 MW projects.
Singapore-based Ditrolic SA International Pte and Powernetic Energy secured permission to develop one of these solar plants in Cox’s Bazar, where they already operate a 20 MW solar project established in 2018. The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) will purchase electricity from this facility for 20 years at a rate of USD 0.0998 per kWh. To connect with the nearest grid substation, the developer will need to install a 14 km 132 kV double-circuit evacuation line.
The second project, spanning Dinajpur and Thakurgaon districts was awarded to a consortium consisting of Green Progress Renewable B.V. and IRB Associates. The agreed-upon tariff rate for this power plant is also USD 0.0998 per kWh, and the two companies will construct and operate the facility. To facilitate electricity transmission to the Pirganj grid substation, the developer will construct 11 km of double-circuit power evacuation lines.
In addition, the state-owned utility Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh (EGCB) has outlined plans to establish a 100 MW solar power plant in the Sonagazi sub-district within the Feni district. This plant will provide power to the economic zones in the area, with Hero Future Energies Asia partnering with EGCB in this joint venture. EGCB will provide the land, while the Singapore-based firm will finance the plant's construction.
