Solar Power Must Be Installed at All Markets by January 31

The directive was issued by the division’s Upazila-2 Branch on September 24. Administrators of all upazila councils and upazila executive officers have been asked to take the necessary steps.

The government is working to increase the use of renewable energy to ensure sustainable energy security. As part of the initiative, solar power systems with batteries must also be installed on the rooftops of existing buildings under local government offices, agencies and institutions at the local, district and upazila levels.

Each system must provide at least two hours of battery backup. After meeting the electricity needs of the respective organisation, any surplus power must be supplied to the national grid through net metering.

The Local Government Division said the initiative would expand the use of renewable energy, help meet local electricity demand and allow surplus power to be added to the national grid. Local government institutions may also earn additional revenue through net metering.

The directive, signed by Deputy Secretary Sultana Akter, has been sent to the administrators of all upazila councils and upazila executive officers across the country.