Future prospect of solar energy in Bangladesh

Abstract

To meet the current energy demand there is no alternative to renewable energies such as solar, wind, biomass etc besides other existing sources. Using solar energy, simply, is a process which can provide energy from the sun. In this process, energy of the sun in the shape of photons reaches to earth and meets the world energy demand of the whole year with just one minute’s solar radiation. Photovoltaic panel (PV panels-made of silicon) is the tool to harness solar energy. Bangladesh is one of the densely populated countries which have not sufficient supply of energy. The present crisis in power supply hints at the troublesome time to come ahead. In Bangladesh, almost 80% of the people live in the village and only 32% of total population is connected to grid electricity (Rahman, 2006).In light of the present demand for electricity; by 2020 the energy mix will be changed considerably from what it is today. The possibilities of using solar power are already being tested and will mostly increase. But still, most households meet their daily needs with biomass fuel. The country’s electricity distribution board is failing to cope with the exponential growth in demand for power in the capital and all over the country. Therefore, the researchers intend to investigate whether there is any future prospect for solar energy in Bangladesh.