Assignment Course Code 7107
Assignment Course Code 7107
Bangladesh's adoption of renewable energy has progressed through private sector involvement,
government efforts, and technical innovation. The advancement of solar photovoltaic technology
has increased affordability and accessibility of solar energy. The analysis also examines the
legislative and regulatory structures that have played a crucial role in forming Bangladesh's solar
energy market. Government regulations, subsidies, and incentives have greatly aided investment
in solar infrastructure.
The socio-economic aspects of this change are equally important. Solar photovoltaic power
development may boost job opportunities, economic growth, and improve energy access in
disadvantaged and rural regions. To assess the overall sustainability and efficacy of Bangladesh's
renewable energy programs, it is essential to comprehend these wider implications.
Experts in renewable energy in Bangladesh were interviewed to supplement the literature study
and data analysis. Comparative evaluations against global best practices and case studies were
conducted to establish standards and lessons for improving the transition to sustainable energy.
The multidisciplinary methodology for this thorough review includes data analysis, expert
interviews, literature reviews, expert interviews, and international comparisons to provide a
comprehensive examination of renewable and sustainable energy sources. This approach ensures
the validity and reliability of the conclusions and suggestions made in the review.
Sustainable energy
Sustainable energy, also known as clean or renewable energy, is crucial for energy security and
the environment in a world where fossil fuel supplies are depleted and climate change is a
reality. Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal heat, and
mechanical vibrations are the main sources of sustainable energy. These technologies provide
electricity with significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pollutants,
reducing the effects of climate change and improving air quality. Energy-efficient technologies,
such as pumped hydro storage and batteries, ensure reliable and consistent energy supply.
Sustainable energy, often in the form of decentralized systems like small-scale solar panels, can
improve access to electricity in isolated or underserved areas, fundamentally altering how people
live their lives. Continuous research and development efforts aim to enhance the economic
viability and efficiency of sustainable energy technologies, making them more accessible and
competitive.
SOLAR ENERGY
Solar energy, derived from the sun's rays, is a sustainable and renewable source of heat and
electricity. Sun radiation, including visible light, infrared, and ultraviolet rays, is the main energy
source for solar devices. Solar photovoltaic cells, or solar panels, convert sunlight into
electricity, which can be used to power buildings, commercial establishments, and electronic
equipment. Solar thermal systems generate heat from solar radiation, useful for industrial
activities, water heating, and space heating. Solar collectors gather and focus sunlight for energy
production.
Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems use mirrors or lenses to direct sunlight onto a small
area, heating a fluid to create steam and power a turbine. This technique is commonly used in big
power plants and the electrical grid. Off-grid systems are independent power sources found in
rural or isolated areas. Solar energy is sustainable and limitless, making it a reliable and durable
power source. The solar energy industry has seen rapid expansion, creating employment and
business opportunities, improving energy security, and lowering consumer energy bills. As
economies of scale and technology progress, solar energy is becoming a more appealing and
practical choice for global energy supply.
SOLAR ENERGY SCENARIO IN BANGLADESH
The goal of these advancements of solar energy is to lessen dependency on fossil fuels and diversify the
energy mix [22]. In remote locations where it is not economically feasible to connect to the central grid,
mini-grids powered by solar energy have been developed. These mini-grids sustain homes, small
enterprises, and agricultural operations by supplying communities with dependable energy.
Bangladesh's government has been aggressively promoting the use of solar energy via laws and
subsidies. Among these is the National Solar Energy Policy, which seeks to advance sustainable
energy practices and raise the proportion of solar energy in the energy mix. Even with the
advancements, problems still exist. These include problems with solar power's erratic nature,
grid integration, and the need for energy storage devices to provide a steady supply of electricity.
Concerns about funding and infrastructure development still exist. International organizations
and donor agencies have provided Bangladesh with funds and help to further its solar energy
endeavors [24]. Knowledge exchange and technology transfer have been made easier by this
partnership.
LARGEST SOLAR POWER PLANT IN BANGLADESH
Bangladesh's largest solar photovoltaic power plant, Rays Power Infra's 275-MW plant in
Sundarganj, Gaibandha, is connected to the national grid and has over 500,000 solar modules
scattered across 600 acres. With annual solar radiation reaching 1700 kWh/m2, it could be an
alternative to grid electricity or diesel fuel, enhancing crop production without straining the
environment. The plant, completed in January 2023, is expected to offset over 375 billion tonnes
of CO2 emissions over its lifetime. Rays Power Infra plans to expand capacity to 2.0 GW in two
years.
ADVANCEMENT OF SOLAR ENERGY IN BANGLADESH
Bangladesh has been a leader in solar energy development, thanks to foreign assistance,
government regulations, and public awareness of the need for clean, sustainable energy sources.
One of its best innovations is Solar Home Systems (SHS), which have enabled millions of
isolated and off-grid homes to access energy. The country has also increased its capacity for
solar electricity linked to the grid, integrating solar parks and utility-scale projects into the
national grid. In remote locations, solar mini-grids have been installed, and rooftop solar panels
are becoming more common. Government regulations have incentivized companies and
households to invest in solar power systems. The National Solar Energy Policy and regulatory
frameworks have set aggressive goals for Bangladesh's increase in solar power capacity.
International institutions, such as the World Bank, have provided financial assistance and
financing to further its solar energy programs. Bangladesh's embrace of solar energy has led to
reduced consumer energy costs and job development in the renewable energy industry.
CHALLENGES OF SOLAR ENERGY HARVESTING
Solar energy harvesting is a promising and sustainable energy source that requires a
multidisciplinary strategy including funding, legislation, technological innovation, and public
involvement. However, challenges remain, such as the impact of sunlight and weather on energy
output, the challenge of creating high-capacity, reasonably priced energy storage systems, and
the difficulty in integrating solar energy into current electricity systems. Despite increased
efficiency, maximizing energy production while lowering prices remains a challenge. Installing
solar panels requires a significant upfront payment, and there may be environmental effects from
the manufacturing, disposal, and usage of solar panels. Often, solar energy is combined with
other energy sources like wind or hydroelectric power, making a balanced and smooth
integration difficult.
DISCUSSION
This study examines the development of solar photovoltaic power in Bangladesh, a country
grappling with energy security and environmental issues. The country has been gradually
adopting solar energy as a solution to these issues, with regulatory frameworks, technical
developments, and socio-economic ramifications being examined. The integration of grid-
connected solar power, the growth of solar home systems in rural areas, and the promotion of
rooftop solar installations in metropolitan regions have all contributed to the expansion of clean
energy availability. International cooperation and governmental policy have also played a crucial
role in this shift.
The paper also discusses the difficulties encountered, such as energy storage and intermittency,
and emphasizes the need for ongoing research and development. The study highlights the
importance of understanding Bangladesh's unique energy needs, economic climate,
environmental issues, and regulatory environment for contextualizing solar projects. It
emphasizes the need to consider the cost-effectiveness of solar technology and prevailing
economic conditions to ensure projects are financially feasible and contribute to the nation's
overall economic development.
Optimizing the location and performance of solar installations requires a thorough evaluation of
Bangladesh's solar resources, identification and mitigation of potential environmental risks, and
prioritizing research and development efforts for technological innovation. The efficiency and
long-term sustainability of solar PV projects are ensured by specifying maintenance needs,
operating procedures, and training courses for local technicians.
CONCLUSION
Bangladesh has made significant strides in transitioning to solar photovoltaic power,
demonstrating the benefits of this shift in energy technology, policy, and socio-economic
changes. This has increased access to clean energy, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and
improved energy security. Bangladesh's adoption of renewable energy is a reflection of its
commitment to combating climate change and promoting economic development in the
sustainable energy industry. However, solar PV generation is less predictable than conventional
energy sources, and large-scale solar installations may require land, potentially causing conflicts
with natural areas or agriculture. Despite these challenges, Bangladesh's progress in solar energy
is encouraging and should serve as a model for the rest of the world.