Bangladesh Needs Smart Grid for Stable Power Supply: Adviser

Energy Adviser Dr. Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan

Speaking at the seminar titled ‘The Role of Smart Grid in the Future Power System’, Dr. Khan said, "Electricity consumption patterns have changed dramatically over the years, presenting new challenges for our power grid. To tackle these challenges and ensure a reliable supply, a smart grid is essential."

The seminar, held at United International University (UIU) on Saturday, was jointly organized by Chinese technology leader Huawei and the Centre for Energy Research (CER) at UIU. The event also marked the inauguration of Bangladesh's first Solar Energy Lab equipped with Energy Storage System (ESS) facilities—an important milestone for the nation’s renewable energy efforts.

Dr. Khan highlighted the government's push toward renewable energy sources like solar and wind, noting that integrating these sources into a stable grid is a key step forward. "Alongside these renewable initiatives, we are prioritizing the development of battery storage systems, which are critical to ensuring grid reliability," he added.

The inauguration of the Solar Energy Lab, funded by Huawei, is a significant leap in advancing the country’s renewable energy research and training capabilities. The lab will offer advanced training and research opportunities, focusing on renewable energy technologies, digital power, and smart energy solutions. The lab’s primary goal is to foster capacity-building and human resource development to support the growing energy sector in Bangladesh.

UIU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Md. Abul Kashem Mia, chaired the event, with notable addresses from Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, Power Grid Bangladesh PLC Chairman Prof. M. Rezwan Khan, and Huawei Technologies (Bangladesh) CEO Pan Junfeng.

Ambassador Yao Wen called the opening of the Solar Lab a significant step in strengthening the China-Bangladesh partnership in the renewable energy sector. "This collaboration not only reflects China’s commitment to supporting local talent development but also highlights the important role of the Centre for Energy Research in advancing solar energy technology in Bangladesh," he said.

Huawei’s Pan Junfeng discussed the company’s contributions to Bangladesh’s green energy transition, sharing that Huawei Digital Power had helped develop over 600 MW of digital power plants in the country. "These plants have generated over 437 million kWh of green power, reducing carbon emissions by more than 200,000 tons, equivalent to planting nearly 284,500 trees," he said.

Shahriar Ahmed Chowdhury, Director of CER, UIU, underscored the rapid growth of Bangladesh’s renewable energy sector, with projections indicating the creation of 3,000 to 4,000 new green jobs as solar power becomes more cost-effective. In 2023 alone, the country added a record 42 MW of new rooftop solar capacity. He also pointed out the ongoing need for practical training facilities. "This lab will play a crucial role in equipping students and professionals with the skills needed for the sector's expansion," he added.

The Centre for Energy Research, established in 2010, is dedicated to advancing research in renewable energy, efficient energy management, and policy development. CER has played a pivotal role in designing solar-diesel hybrid mini-grids for rural electrification and serves as one of Bangladesh's key institutions for testing Solar Home System (SHS) equipment.