(BSS) – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today said that Bangladesh is steadily moving toward clean energy, a green economy and a self-reliant energy system.

He said this while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the “Renewable Solar Power On-Grid Rooftop” initiative at the Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Bhaban here this morning.

“Today we are inaugurating an initiative that is not only a power generation project, but also a symbol of Bangladesh’s sustainable future,” the premier said.

He added, “Through the inauguration of the one-megawatt rooftop solar power system at the Sangsad Bhaban, we will be able to give a clear message that Bangladesh is steadily advancing toward clean energy, a green economy and a self-reliant energy system.”

At the request of the Prime Minister, JS Speaker Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, formally inaugurated the “Renewable Solar Power On-Grid Rooftop” initiative.

At the event, Tarique Rahman, also ruling BNP chairman, said that the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, designed by Louis I. Kahn, is undoubtedly a symbol of the country’s democracy.

“Today, by utilizing solar energy on the rooftop of this building, we are trying to demonstrate that leadership must be reflected not only in policy but also in practical action,” he said.

Noting that Bangladesh is trying to achieve self-reliance in the energy sector, the premier said, "Our economy is expanding, industrialization is increasing and electricity demand is also rising rapidly. But at the same time, we must acknowledge that Bangladesh is one of the world`s most climate-vulnerable countries due to climate change impacts."

Mentioning sea-level rise, erratic rainfall, cyclones and river erosion as everyday realities, Tarique Rahman said, "That`s why moving toward sustainable energy is no longer just an environmental responsibility; it has become an essential part of our economy and national security. Solar energy is the brightest aspect of that potential."

He noted that Bangladesh receives on an average of 4.5 and 5 kilowatt-hours of solar radiation per square kilometer every day, saying, "Our countless rooftops, industrial areas, open lands and coastal regions hold enormous potential for renewable energy."

"Over the past decade, the global cost of solar power generation has significantly declined globally. As a result, solar energy is now not only environmentally-friendly but also an economically effective solution. Today`s project is part of that broader journey," he added.

"I firmly believe this initiative at the JS Bhaban will inspire all public and private institutions across the country. If every institution and every citizen joins this journey toward clean energy, Bangladesh can, InshaAllah, very quickly become a model state of green and sustainable development."

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry Iqbal Hassan Mahmood, State Minister Aninda Islam Amit and Chief Whip of JS Nurul Islam Moni were on the podium during the inaugural ceremony.

Besides, cabinet members, JS whips, lawmakers, parliament secretariat officials and members of the Prime Minister`s Press Wing and officials were also present on the occasion.