Experts urge shift to renewables, warn against costly energy expansion

Energy experts and environmental advocates have cautioned that Bangladesh's growing reliance on imported fossil fuels and unchecked expansion of coal and LNG-based projects are threatening both economic stability and the ecosystem.

Speaking at an at an interactive session titled "Energy Expansion: Impact on Bangladesh's Economy, Ecosystem and Fair Transition" held at Premier University in Chattogram today, they also called for a swift transition to renewable sources.

The event was jointly organised by Dhara (Protect the Earth), Premier University, 350.org, and Waterkeepers Bangladesh, with the participation of youth climate activists, students, researchers, and civil society representatives.

Dependence on imports a key risk

Shafiqul Alam, lead analyst at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), said Bangladesh's energy mix remains highly vulnerable. 

"Around 40% of our total energy supply and over half of our electricity generation depend on imports. Yet, only 2% comes from renewable sources," he said.

He added that Bangladesh's global ranking in energy security, equity, and sustainability has slipped to 83rd, down from 77th two years ago. 

"Every energy investment has long-term economic consequences. Without a shift to renewables, financial pressure will keep mounting," he warned.

Local industries and ecology under threat

Sharif Jamil, member secretary of Dhara, said poorly planned power projects have already devastated farming, fisheries, and salt production in coastal areas. 

"We found that ash from power plants is making farmland infertile, while chemicals are destroying fish stocks. Development can never come at the cost of the environment," he said, alleging that environmental assessments conducted under donor pressure were flawed.

Global politics complicating energy transition

Harjeet Singh, strategic advisor to the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, pointed to geopolitical challenges. 
"Despite huge investments, fossil fuel dependence remains unchanged. Critical minerals needed for clean energy are controlled by a few countries, especially China. This makes the transition costly and politically sensitive," he said.

He added that although 17 countries have joined the Treaty Initiative, Bangladesh has yet to step forward. 

"Bangladesh has a critical role to play at the international stage and must raise its voice for a just transition," he said.

Universities urged to raise awareness

Opening the event, Premier University Registrar Mohammad Iftekhar Monir said universities must play a role in raising awareness on energy and climate issues. 

"We usually equate energy with oil and gas, but with greenhouse gas emissions rising, renewable energy is the only sustainable option," he said.

In closing speech, Vice Chancellor Prof SM Nasrul Qadir pledged to support more youth-focused environmental initiatives.

The event also included with a quiz competition, where 130 young participants tested their knowledge on climate and energy issues, with winners receiving prizes and certificates.