The Sirajganj photovoltaic (PV) power station, the largest solar power project currently under construction in Bangladesh, has successfully been connected to the national power grid. This milestone was announced by Power Construction Corp of China via its official WeChat account on Saturday, marking a significant development for Bangladesh’s renewable energy landscape.
This achievement not only highlights Bangladesh’s progress toward renewable energy but also underscores China’s pivotal role in enhancing the region’s energy mix and supporting industrial growth. Bangladesh has historically faced severe energy shortages, with its energy supply heavily reliant on imported fuels such as oil and gas. This dependency exposes the country to global energy price fluctuations, posing economic risks and hindering industrial diversification.
In light of these challenges, the development of PV power plants and other green energy infrastructure is vital for Bangladesh’s energy transition and industrialization efforts. Reliable electricity supply is critical for integrating Bangladesh more deeply into the global industrial chain, fostering industrial development, and attracting foreign investment.
China’s extensive experience in renewable energy technology has positioned it as a key player globally. With a strong track record in technical research, equipment manufacturing, and project execution, China has established itself as a leader in solar and wind power capacity, contributing significantly to renewable energy projects worldwide.
The collaboration between China and Bangladesh in the renewable energy sector has been particularly pronounced under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Since Bangladesh’s inclusion in the BRI, China has constructed 27 power projects, including PV, hydropower, and wind power facilities, with a combined capacity of over 9,038 megawatts. These projects account for approximately 35% of Bangladesh’s total installed power capacity, ensuring a stable energy supply that supports the nation’s rapid economic and social development.
Bangladesh’s pursuit of renewable energy is part of a broader regional trend in Asia, where rapid industrialization, particularly in South Asia, has led to soaring energy demand. However, traditional energy sources are increasingly constrained by resource limitations, environmental concerns, and price volatility in international markets, exacerbating regional energy shortages and threatening economic growth.
Renewable energy development offers a critical solution to these challenges, particularly in South Asia, which benefits from favorable geographical and climatic conditions for renewable energy production. Chinese companies are actively involved in renewable energy projects across Asia, including hydropower, wind, and solar initiatives. These projects not only boost local energy supply but also stimulate job creation and the growth of related industries, thereby improving living standards.
China’s partnerships with other Asian nations in renewable energy have also advanced regional cooperation. By leveraging its technological expertise, China has reduced the costs of renewable energy and enhanced its reliability. These advancements have been shared with neighboring countries through international collaborations, facilitating their transition to sustainable energy and promoting the growth of industrial networks and regional economic integration.
Source Link: https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202408/1317350.shtml
