Khulna Reports Surge in Green Energy Projects as Solar Initiative Launches

Khulna, Bangladesh – A major solar energy project is set to transform the energy landscape of Khulna, a key industrial city in southwestern Bangladesh, as authorities announce a significant push toward renewable sources. The initiative, unveiled by the Khulna City Corporation in collaboration with the Bangladesh Power Development Board, aims to install solar panels on over 200 public buildings, including schools, hospitals, and government offices, by the end of 2025.

The project, valued at approximately 3.5 billion Bangladeshi taka, is part of a broader national strategy to increase renewable energy capacity to 40% of total power generation by 2041. Local officials say the move will reduce Khulna’s reliance on fossil fuels, lower electricity costs for public institutions, and create hundreds of temporary jobs during installation.

“This is a milestone for Khulna and for Bangladesh’s green energy ambitions,” said Md. Shahidul Islam, mayor of Khulna City Corporation, in a press briefing on Monday. “We are not only addressing power shortages but also contributing to global climate goals.”

The announcement comes amid growing concerns over energy security in the region. Khulna, home to a bustling port and numerous garment factories, has faced intermittent power cuts in recent years, partly due to aging infrastructure and rising demand. The solar project is expected to generate up to 50 megawatts of electricity, which officials say will stabilize the grid and support industrial growth.

Environmental groups have welcomed the initiative but called for transparency in implementation. “Solar energy is a step in the right direction, but we need to ensure that the panels are sourced ethically and that local communities benefit directly,” said Fatima Begum, a spokesperson for the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association.

Beyond the solar project, Khulna is also seeing a rise in small-scale renewable ventures. In the rural outskirts, farmers are adopting solar-powered irrigation pumps, reducing dependence on diesel. Meanwhile, the Khulna University of Engineering and Technology has launched a research program on battery storage, aiming to address the intermittency of solar power.

International observers note that Bangladesh’s focus on renewables is gaining momentum, with Khulna serving as a testbed. The country has already made strides in solar home systems, reaching over 6 million households, but large-scale urban projects remain rare. If successful, the Khulna initiative could become a model for other cities in South Asia.

However, challenges persist. The project requires significant upfront investment, and experts warn that maintenance and grid integration will be critical. “The technology is available, but the real test is in execution,” said Dr. Anwar Hossain, an energy analyst at the University of Dhaka. “Khulna’s success will depend on consistent funding and skilled manpower.”

As construction is set to begin in March, residents express cautious optimism. “We hope this means fewer blackouts and lower bills,” said Rasheda Khatun, a shopkeeper in the city’s old market. “But we’ve heard promises before. Let’s see if it works.”

The project aligns with Bangladesh’s commitments under the Paris Agreement, where it has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 15% by 2030. For Khulna, a city often overshadowed by the capital Dhaka, the solar push marks a chance to lead in sustainable development.