Experts and advocates have urged Bangladesh to accelerate its shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy, emphasizing the need to make clean energy both affordable and accessible to all segments of society. The call was made during a press conference held at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology’s (BUET) Central Field in Dhaka on October 26, marking the inauguration of the three-day Renewable Energy Fest 2026, which will continue through October 30.
The event is organized collaboratively by ActionAid Bangladesh, the Just Energy Transition Network Bangladesh (JETnet-BD), BUET, and its Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development (IESD). The festival aims to promote dialogue and initiatives that support the country’s transition toward sustainable energy sources.
Prof. MAA Shaukat Chowdhury, director of IESD, highlighted the importance of enhancing national capacity in renewable energy technologies. He stressed the need to ensure energy security through sustainable means that minimize environmental impact. “We must build our capacity in renewable energy and address sustainable energy security while causing less harm to the environment,” he said.
Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, emphasized that renewable energy systems must be designed to be affordable, equitable, environmentally friendly, and inclusive. She underscored the imperative to guarantee that the benefits of renewable energy extend to every individual regardless of economic status. “It is important to ensure that the benefits of renewable energy reach all people and that everyone can benefit from it,” Kabir said.
Representing marginalized communities, Sanjida Sultana, additional executive director of Karmojibi Nari, pointed out the particular challenges faced by women working in the informal labor sector with respect to accessing clean and affordable energy. She called for equitable energy access as a key component of an inclusive renewable energy transition. “Women in the informal labour sector often face difficulty accessing affordable and clean energy. Ensuring equity in energy access is essential,” Sultana remarked.
The ongoing festival aims to engage policymakers, experts, and civil society to explore inclusive strategies that can facilitate Bangladesh’s energy transformation while addressing socioeconomic disparities. As Bangladesh continues to grapple with growing energy demand and environmental concerns, the emphasis on affordable renewable energy underscores a broader commitment to sustainable development and social equity.