Bangladesh set to launch its first and largest renewable energy festival

In the face of the ever-intensifying threat of climate change, Bangladesh is poised to take a landmark step towards renewables.

From 23 to 24 April 2025, ActionAid Bangladesh, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and JETnet-BD will host the nation's first and largest "Renewable Energy Fest 2025" at the BUET ECE premises. Far more than a mere ceremony, this three-day festival marks the birth of a national movement in which policymakers, industry leaders, young innovators and citizens unite to chart a sustainable energy future.

Bangladesh's energy sector relies almost entirely on fossil fuels, with renewables accounting for just 2.94 per cent of total generation. Against this backdrop, the time has come to harness the potential of renewable energy to establish an environmentally friendly and enduring power supply. Research by the Institute for Sustainable Futures indicates that, by utilising its resources, Bangladesh could generate an astonishing 156 GW of solar and 150 GW of wind power. Transforming these possibilities into reality will require coordinated action, effective policy frameworks, and the active involvement of a new generation.

Bangladesh currently spends over USD 12 billion annually on imported fossil fuels, yet has the potential to produce vast amounts of clean energy. The festival aims to drive policy reform, showcase cutting-edge technologies, and engage youth in forging a green future. It will also draw energy experts, academics, civil‑society organisations, development partners, and private‑sector stakeholders.

The festival opens on 22 April with a colourful procession highlighting the importance of financing renewable energy. The most dynamic and energetic youth organisations will bring the parade to life with spirited performances. This will be followed by a press briefing outlining the event's aims, context, and expectations.

The heart of the festival on 23 and 24 April comprises six major Policy Dialogue Sessions, each examining a different aspect of the transition: social and environmental impacts; policy and governance; financing and investment; infrastructure and technology; women's participation; and the role of youth in climate justice and energy transition. Recommendations emerging from these discussions will be presented to policymakers to inform the development of a robust energy transition strategy.

Key features include the Innovation & Technology Fair and a dedicated Youth Hub. Domestic innovators will exhibit state-of-the-art renewable‑energy prototypes, while corporate participants showcase established sustainable solutions. Both fairs offer a unique opportunity to learn, network, and forge partnerships.

The Youth Hub will host dialogue and open mic sessions, awareness-raising plays, hands-on workshops, and a Renewable Energy Quiz Booth. Here, young people will share ideas, spark debate, and be inspired to participate actively in Bangladesh's clean‑energy movement.

On the final day, awards will be presented across categories, recognising outstanding contributions and innovations in the renewable energy sector. These accolades aim to spur further creativity and initiative.

Projections suggest Bangladesh's power demand could reach 58,410 MW by 2041. Expanding renewables and exploring potential resources are, therefore, essential. This festival will lay the groundwork for an integrated energy policy by bringing together policymakers, investors, and youth.

Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, remarked: "This festival appears to be a positive turning point for our energy sector. It will provide a strong foundation for increasing renewable energy use and investment. We believe that, through the collective efforts of policymakers, experts, entrepreneurs and the wider public, Bangladesh can advance towards a sustainable, green future. Renewable Energy Fest 2025 is the first step on that journey—it is more than technology showcasing; it is a pledge to a just and green tomorrow."