Challenges of Renewable Energy in Bangladesh: Myth or Reality?
This in-house seminar aims to dissect the prevailing discourse on renewable energy in Bangladesh, separating a well-grounded analysis of genuine challenges from commonly held myths. As Bangladesh strives to meet its growing energy demands while adhering to climate commitments, the transition to renewable sources like solar and wind is paramount. This discussion will critically evaluate the real-world obstacles hindering this transition. Key among these are structural challenges, including the high population density and competing land use priorities which make large-scale solar and wind farms difficult to implement. The seminar will also address technical hurdles such as grid instability, the need for significant investment in grid modernization to handle intermittent power sources, and the current limitations of energy storage technology.
Beyond these tangible issues, the seminar will confront perceived barriers or "myths," such as the notion that renewable energy is prohibitively expensive or technologically unviable for a developing country. It will present evidence-based arguments on the falling costs of solar and wind technologies and showcase successful models of implementation from other densely populated nations. The discussion will cover financial and policy-related challenges, including the need for robust regulatory frameworks, attractive investment incentives, and streamlining the process for private sector participation. The goal is to move beyond a simplistic debate and foster a strategic conversation on actionable policy recommendations. By distinguishing between surmountable obstacles and unfounded skepticism, this seminar will provide a clearer, more realistic roadmap for accelerating Bangladesh’s journey towards a sustainable and secure energy future, aligning national development goals with global environmental responsibilities.