Speakers say Barisal is fighting for a fair energy future: Stakeholders make strong demands on renewable energy.
A divisional-level discussion meeting on “Just Energy Transition in Barishal Division: Realities and the Way Forward” was held, emphasizing the need to reduce the impacts of climate change, build a livable planet for future generations, and decrease dependence on fossil fuels. The meeting was jointly organized by PRANTOJON Trust and Just Energy Transition Network Bangladesh (JetNet-BD). Held on Monday, June 2nd, at 2:30 PM at the BDS Hall Room in Barishal, the meeting was chaired by Professor Gazi Jahid Hossain, President of the Sachetan Nagarik Committee, Barisal. Mr. Tauhedul Islam Shahazada, Director of Prantojon Trust, moderated the session.
Dr. Hafzi Ashraful Haque Shahbaz, Associate Professor at Barisal University, delivered the keynote presentation. Other speakers included: Jahida Khanam, Deputy General Manager, Palli Bidyut Samity-1 (Rural Electrification Board Society-1), Azad Abul Kalam, General Secretary of JetNet-BD, Rahima Sultana Kajol, Director of AVAS, Shubhangkar Chakraborty, Director of MAP, Ranjit Dutta, General Secretary of CAB, Barishal. Journalist Prantik Jasim, Journalist Mejba Uddin Mannu. Attendees also included students from Barisal University, journalists, and representatives of civil society.
Speakers said Bangladesh’s economic development has increased energy demand, primarily met by fossil fuels. This depletes natural resources and hurts the environment. “There is no alternative to transitioning from fossil fuels to sustainable and renewable energy sources.” The government plans to make Barisal a fossil fuel hub, but the division has immense potential for renewable energy. A stark example: only one 1 MW solar plant has been established in the entire Barisal division so far.
Speakers also said to ensure a fair energy transition, the following proposals were presented: Revise the National Energy Policy by correcting inconsistencies in current power and energy plans, involving local experts and citizens. Set legally binding targets: 30% renewable energy by 2030, 50% by 2040, and 100% by 2050. Refrain from signing any international agreements on power and energy that compromise state sovereignty, public interest, or prioritize multinational corporate profits. Stop acquiring agriculturally and environmentally critical land for power plants. Before any acquisition, ensure effective use of alternatives like rooftops, fallow land, and unused spaces. Provide tax exemptions and incentives for green and renewable energy sources and related equipment.
Civil society representatives noted that while social contexts are prioritized in renewable energy discussions, and many work on project-based initiatives, there is currently no visible, dedicated civil society alliance specifically for the renewable energy sector (unlike alliances existing for other social contexts). Speakers highlighted the media’s crucial role in bringing issues like corruption and irregularities in power sector capacity payments to light. “It is because of the media’s focus on capacity payments that civil society has gained the opportunity to work on exposing these corrupt practices.”