The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (Beza) is exploring the potential to develop solar power parks within the expansive Mirsharai Economic Zone in Chattogram, the country’s largest industrial zone.

Beza’s newly appointed executive chairman, Ashik Chowdhury, announced that the project in the early planning stages would likely proceed through a public-private partnership (PPP) model.

Chowdhury revealed that 5,400 of the 16,800 acres of Mirsharai’s available land have already been allocated to 156 investors, and factories are slated to occupy 55% of the zone’s land.

Meanwhile, 25% of the space will be dedicated to essential infrastructure, and 20% will be reserved for environmental projects like lakes and afforestation.

Chowdhury noted that some of the 3,840 acres initially allocated for industrial use could be repurposed for solar parks. “There is no benefit in leaving the land unused for 15 years,” he said, explaining that the agency has already shared the concept with the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources and received positive feedback.

Beza’s vision includes collaboration with the Bangladesh Power Development Board and a development partner, with funding support sought from multilateral lenders. The target is to have the solar installations operational by 2027, with additional opportunities for investors to install their panels.

The agency plans to finalize a phased development strategy that prioritizes projects over the next five years.

“We will make a clear plan,” Chowdhury emphasized, stressing the importance of transparency and reliable commitments to investors. Starting in 2028, utility service access points will be established around the economic zone, ensuring streamlined access to resources like electricity.