Bangladesh’s power sector has come a long way in just two decades, achieving near-universal electricity access and powering rapid industrial growth. But a new challenge now looms: how to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and embrace a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
At present, the country generates only about 5% of its electricity (1,563 MW) from renewable sources (BPDB, 2024). Most of this comes from solar, followed by a small share of hydro and biomass. By contrast, India produces nearly 30% of its power from renewables, China over 35%, and Australia close to 40% (IRENA, 2024). To close the gap, Bangladesh has set an ambitious target: 20% renewable energy by 2030 under the updated Renewable Energy Policy 2025.
This is no small task. To raise renewables from 5% to 20% within five years, Bangladesh must look beyond conventional rooftop and land-based solar solutions. Floating solar and offshore wind — two technologies well-suited to Bangladesh’s geography that can help turn ambition into reality.
Floating Solar: Innovation for a Land-Scarce Country
With more than 1,200 people per sq. km, Bangladesh cannot easily spare land for vast solar parks. Floating solar panels, deployed on reservoirs, lakes, and industrial ponds, offer a smart alternative. They increase efficiency by staying cool on water, reduce evaporation losses, and complement hydropower generation.
Globally, floating solar is gaining momentum. India recently launched a 600 MW project in Madhya Pradesh, while Singapore built a 122 MW floating farm on its Tengeh Reservoir. Bangladesh has already piloted small projects through SREDA. Scaling these across Kaptai Lake, haor basins, and dam reservoirs could add hundreds of megawatts without displacing agriculture.
Offshore Wind: A Sleeping Giant on the Coast
With 700 km of coastline, Bangladesh has strong offshore wind potential, especially in the Bay of Bengal. A World Bank study (2019) estimates over 20 GW of technical potential. Yet this remains untapped.
Offshore wind is booming worldwide. China leads with 31.4 GW, while the UK and Germany together contribute over 20 GW. Even Vietnam, with a similar coastal profile, is rapidly scaling up. For Bangladesh, offshore wind could provide a reliable alternative to imported coal and LNG, while also stimulating industries such as shipbuilding, steel fabrication, and port logistics.
China has already expressed interest in sharing expertise and investing in Bangladesh’s offshore wind sector. Leveraging this opportunity, alongside lessons from India and Vietnam, could fast-track development.
Challenges and Choices
The path is not without hurdles. Floating solar and offshore wind require high upfront investment, advanced engineering skills, and long-term policy clarity. Bangladesh also needs a stronger grid, smart storage solutions, and better incentives for private investors.
However, these are not insurmountable. With concessional finance from partners like the World Bank, ADB, and JICA, and with clear power purchase agreements, Bangladesh can attract both domestic and foreign investors. Building local skills through universities and training institutes will also be critical.
Why Now?
The clock is ticking. Bangladesh has less than five years to move from 5% to 20% renewables. And this is only the first step: the Perspective Plan 2041 envisions 30% renewable generation by 2041, aligning with the nation’s development goals under Vision 2041.
Floating solar and offshore wind are not experimental technologies anymore — they are proven solutions. For Bangladesh, they represent more than just clean energy; they offer energy independence, industrial growth, and climate resilience.
The Way Forward
- Set technology-specific targets: commit to at least 3 GW of floating solar and 2 GW of offshore wind by 2035, backed by a Renewable Energy Master Plan.
- Launch pilot projects: develop at least one 50–100 MW floating solar farm and one 100–200 MW offshore wind farm under PPP models, with sovereign guarantees to attract private investors.
- Foster partnerships: collaborate with India, Vietnam, and China for technology transfer, concessional finance, and joint-venture development of offshore and floating projects.
- Promote PPP-driven local industries: incentivize private investment in turbine blade assembly, floating platform fabrication, and solar module mounting, while ensuring public sector support for grid upgrades and training programs.
A Clean Energy Revolution Within Reach
Bangladesh has less than five years to move from 5% to 20% renewables, the first step toward the Perspective Plan 2041 goal of 30% renewable generation. Floating solar and offshore wind are not futuristic dreams; they are practical solutions within reach.
By turning its rivers, lakes, and coastlines into engines of clean power, Bangladesh can secure its energy future, cut reliance on imports, and ensure that Vision 2041 is powered by sustainability and resilience.
The choice is simple: act boldly now, or risk being left behind in the global renewable race.
The writer is a Senior Assistant Chief at Bangladesh Planning Commission
