Govt rolls out nationwide rooftop solar initiative

The government has launched a nationwide initiative to develop a local network of rooftop solar entrepreneurs and service providers as part of efforts to accelerate the country’s transition to renewable energy.

Under the National Renewable Energy Development Strategy 2026–2030, electricity distribution companies have begun accepting applications from eligible service providers across designated districts and geographic zones, according to the Power Division.

Selected partners will provide technical assistance, financing solutions, customer support, and operation and maintenance services for rooftop solar systems and other green technologies.

The initiative is designed to reduce barriers to entry for small and medium-sized enterprises, young and women entrepreneurs, and technology startups seeking to enter the growing renewable energy sector.

Local companies will also be encouraged to establish strategic partnerships with established national firms and investors to strengthen their technical expertise and financial capacity.

Service providers will be chosen through a transparent and competitive selection process. Both individual companies and joint ventures will be eligible to apply, allowing emerging businesses to collaborate with more experienced firms.

Through the initiative, the government aims to expand rooftop solar beyond large companies and major urban centres by creating a nationwide service network.

The framework is expected to encourage providers to introduce affordable and innovative investment and service packages while fostering greater competition in the rooftop solar market.

The government is also considering measures to boost rooftop solar investment, including incentives, tax and duty benefits, easier access to low-cost financing, and startup funding for new and innovative entrepreneurs.

Special attention will be given to bringing customers and entrepreneurs in rural and remote areas into the renewable energy market.

Under the National Renewable Energy Development Strategy 2026–2030, Bangladesh aims to increase the share of renewable energy in total electricity generation to 20% by 2030, including a target of 5,500MW of rooftop solar capacity.

The strategy seeks to build a secure, affordable, sustainable and low-carbon energy system while enhancing energy security, economic growth, industrialisation and climate resilience.

The Power Division said skilled workers, local entrepreneurs, investors and an effective nationwide service network would be essential to meeting the country’s renewable energy targets.

The initiative is also expected to generate new opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses, stimulate local investment, promote skills development and create employment.

The government hopes businesses, young people and women entrepreneurs across the country, including those in remote areas, will take part in the rapidly expanding renewable energy market.