Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has directed authorities to implement a national rooftop solar programme aimed at expanding solar power generation across Bangladesh, particularly by using government building rooftops.

The instruction came on Thursday during a meeting held at the state guesthouse Jamuna, where the Chief Adviser underscored the urgency of accelerating renewable energy adoption. The move follows Bangladesh’s sluggish progress in the solar energy sector compared to its South Asian neighbours.

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Bangladesh currently generates just 5.6% of its electricity from solar power. In contrast, India produces 24%, Pakistan 17.16%, and Sri Lanka 39.7%.

Under the Renewable Energy Policy 2025, Bangladesh aims to meet 20% of its electricity demand from renewable sources by 2030 and 30% by 2040. However, officials admit that ongoing land-based solar projects — 55 plants with a total capacity of 5,238 MW — may not be fully operational before 2028.

In response, the Chief Adviser has proposed an immediate shift to rooftop installations on all government offices, educational institutions, and hospitals. He recommended the involvement of private firms to install, maintain, and operate the systems, with the government providing only rooftop access.

“This initiative can move quickly if driven by private sector interest. They will maintain the systems as part of their business model, while the institutions benefit from rent and power cost savings,” he said.

Institutions with rooftop installations will receive rent and be exempt from electricity bills under the proposed model.