Climate change has been wreaking havoc unpredictably in our only the fragile earth for a long time. For many other reasons renewable energy is indispensable because it provides an endless supply of clean energy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change.
In addition, it enhances energy security by decreasing reliance on finite fossil fuels, stimulates economic growth through job creation in the clean energy sector. And it improves public health by lowering air pollution from burning fossil fuels.
Renewable energy is one of the key components of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to reach by 2030, offering a path to meet energy needs without depleting resources or harming the environment. Considering all those pressing issues-- renewable energy is imperativeto be the much talked topic across the globe even at the Conference of the Parties (COPs) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
A white paper estimated that the health impacts of climate change could cost the global economy at least $1.5 trillion in lost productivity by 2050.
Policy support from the government is crucial for promoting
renewable energy. There is a need to balance market and policy
mechanisms to boost investor confidence and address high renewable
energy costs.
Among other issues it was discussed at the WEC event that the affordability and energy security in these volatile geopolitical times have become even stronger. Those are actually driving the energy transition, if anything, in other parts of the world even faster. There is no manageable climate future unless we phase out fossil fuels, remove carbon and come back into the safe space of the planetary boundaries. We need the planet to help us continue buffer, so that we can come back after overshoot.
Asking government leaders to help us remove the roadblocks for us to achieve a climate smart economy that means resource and cost smart and there are opportunities in the new economy. WEC report on Asia's carbon markets delved into opportunities, challenges and best practices for leveraging carbon markets to accelerate the green transition across Asia.
In Bangladesh, key problems with renewable energy include high upfront costs and limited financial access; the difficulty of acquiring sufficient land for large-scale projects due to dense population and complex land laws; and the need to upgrade the existing power grid to absorb intermittent renewable sources effectively. There is also a significant challenge in developing sufficient local technical expertise and skilled human resources for renewable energy systems.
As of September 2025, Bangladesh's renewable energy installed capacity was 1,636.5 MW, or 5.22 percent of its total capacity.
Solar is the leading renewable energy source, with a significant number of installations including solar home systems, rooftop solar, solar irrigation, and solar minigrids.
Wind energy has significant potential in Bangladesh's coastal regions, such as Chittagong and Cox's Bazar, which experience higher wind speeds. Bangladesh has substantial potential for biogas generation from various waste sources, including animal and human waste, garbage, and water hyacinth.
The Government of Bangladesh aims to achieve 30 percent renewable energy by 2030. However, current progress suggests the goal may be difficult to achieve.
The vast majority of Bangladesh's electricity is generated from fossil fuels. Meeting demand with rapid fossil fuel expansion has also led to a significant increase in power sector emissions in recent decades.
Policy support from the government is crucial for promoting renewable energy. There is a need to balance market and policy mechanisms to boost investor confidence and address high renewable energy costs.
A seminar titled "Transition to Renewable Energy: Challenges and Opportunities" was held in Dhaka on September 27, 2025. Jointly organized by DhoritriRokkhayAmra (DHORA) and Water keepers Bangladesh. The seminar brought together leading experts, academics, and young climate activists from across the country.
It culminates in in-depth discussions and policy recommendations on the critical importance of rapidly transitioning to renewable energy to combat climate change and achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Experts call for swift action on renewable energy transition for a sustainable future.
Dr. Sazed Kamal, renewable energy and sustainable development specialist from the Brandeis University, USA delivered his keynote speech. He discussed various renewable energy innovations and emphasized that the transition from fossil fuels to renewables requires new innovations tailored to local needs. He stressed that Bangladesh must pursue innovations based on its unique demands and geographical location, following the example of other regions.
Speakers at the seminar unanimously agreed that increasing investment in renewable energy and formulating a rapid transition strategy area must. It is to reduce Bangladesh's reliance on fossil fuels and ensure a greener, more equitable future. However, the lack of technological capacity, economic hurdles, and the absence of a coordinated policy remain major challenges in this transition.
The writer is a researcher, award-winning environment, climate change and health journalist
