A national workshop held today in Dhaka addressed critical barriers hindering the expansion of renewable energy in Bangladesh’s climate-vulnerable regions.
Experts and policymakers discussed key issues, including financing constraints, high upfront costs, weak market systems, and policy implementation challenges that impede the adoption of sustainable energy solutions in ecologically sensitive areas like the Sundarbans and Hakaluki Haor.
Organised by CARE Bangladesh and iDE Bangladesh under the UK government-funded NABAPALLAB project, the workshop aimed to bridge the gap between national energy targets and ground-level implementation.
The event brought together stakeholders from the government, private sector, financial institutions, and NGOs to explore scalable renewable energy solutions that could boost resilience in these regions.
The workshop’s focus was on nature-based solutions such as solar-powered irrigation systems, bio-digesters, and solar-powered livelihood technologies. The solutions are part of the NABAPALLAB project, which seeks to integrate renewable energy technologies while promoting ecosystem restoration and sustainable income generation in vulnerable areas.
Sameer Karki, Country Director of iDE Bangladesh, highlighted the difficulty in translating national policies into effective, on-the-ground solutions. “As energy demand grows, renewable energy will be vital for a resilient future.
However, translating policy into practice remains a significant challenge in vulnerable areas,” Karki stated, stressing the need for coordinated action among the government, private sector, and local communities.
Nathaniel Smith, Team Leader for Climate and Environment at the British High Commission, echoed the importance of Bangladesh’s energy transition, framing it as both an environmental priority and a pathway to economic resilience amidst global energy volatility.
“Through initiatives like NABAPALLAB, we support community-driven solutions and foster partnerships that can scale,” he said.
While there is no shortage of innovative technologies, the workshop participants noted that challenges remain in financing, policy implementation, and market systems.
High upfront costs and limited private sector engagement continue to slow adoption, particularly in rural and underserved markets.
Financial institutions also voiced concerns about accessing working capital and managing risks in these areas.
Hossain Zillur Rahman, economist and keynote speaker, pointed out that the barriers to renewable energy in Bangladesh are more deeply rooted in structural and political economy challenges than in technological limitations.
“To bridge the gap between national targets and grassroots realities, inclusive financing, stronger local markets, and sustainable solutions are essential,” Rahman stressed.
In her closing remarks, Selina Shelley Khan, Chief of Party of the NABAPALLAB project, called for stronger collaboration across sectors.
She urged the government, financial institutions, and private sector actors to work together to create a favourable environment for renewable energy investments in Bangladesh.
