State minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid said Bangladesh has always given priority to environment-friendly development. Incentives are being given for the expansion of renewable energy.
The minister made the remarks in a bilateral on line meeting with Lord Jack Goldsmith, the UK's minister for Pacific and Environment on Tuesday (August 25).
The state minister said that according to the power system master plan, 17 per cent of the electricity generated by 2041 will come from renewable energy. Net metering guidelines will encourage customers to use solar rooftops. There are now 58 lakh solar home systems in Bangladesh. Solar home systems are making a significant contribution to illuminating off-grid areas. He discussed about research on renewable energy, energy use technologies and strategies, energy technology, methods, services and policies, and energy efficiency and conservation.
Nasrul Hamid said, we sincerely welcome technical cooperation. He urged UK government and non-government companies to invest in expanding clean energy in Bangladesh. Potential areas for investment in Bangladesh were also discussed.
Lord Jack Goldsmith, the UK's Minister for the Pacific and the Environment said working together to spread clean energy could be done. Officials will continue discussions to explore the possibility of renewable energy, including offshore wind. We are also interested in financing here. Future energy systems should be approached prudently.
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Robert Chatterton Dixon and DFID Bangladesh Chief Judith Herbertson, among others, were present at the virtual bilateral meeting.