SREDA, UNDP launch low-carbon urban project
The Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on 18 May 2026 launched a five-year initiative to support Bangladesh's transition towards sustainable, energy-efficient and climate-resilient urban development.
The project, titled "Promoting Energy-Related Low-Carbon Urban Development (LCUD) in Bangladesh", was launched at Bidyut Bhaban in Dhaka.
Supported by a $3.7 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the initiative will promote renewable energy adoption, energy-efficient infrastructure and low-carbon urban planning in Bangladesh's rapidly growing cities.
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The project will help develop investment-grade projects, strengthen engagement among public and private stakeholders, and raise awareness among city dwellers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
K M Ali Reza, Additional Secretary representing the Secretary of the Power Division, attended the event as the chief guest.
"Dependence on imported fuel remains a major challenge to our energy sovereignty," he said.
He emphasised the importance of energy efficiency and called for the development of investment-grade projects supported by scalable and sustainable business models with strong financial linkages.
"The LCUD project is a timely and critical initiative that aligns closely with our national priorities to scale up renewable energy and energy efficiency," he added.
Sonali Dayaratne, Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP, stressed the importance of partnership in advancing climate action.
"Urbanisation presents both a major challenge and a significant opportunity for climate action. The LCUD project reflects a strong partnership between the government, development partners and the private sector to mobilise investment in practical low-carbon solutions. Its success will depend on a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach," she said.
Muzaffar Ahmed, Chairman of SREDA, said the authority envisioned the LCUD project as a practical, result-oriented and investment-focused initiative.
"Success relies on strong cooperation among government agencies, city corporations and the private sector to unlock both the environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy. Together, we believe the LCUD project can become an effective and replicable model for Bangladesh," he said.
Among others, Engr Md Muzibur Rahman, Director, SREDA and Project Director of LCUD, and Sarder M Asaduzzaman, Assistant Resident Representative, UNDP Bangladesh, also spoke.
With rapid urbanisation increasing pressure on energy systems and the environment, the LCUD project aims to support a more sustainable and low-carbon future for Bangladesh's cities.
The initiative will promote investments in energy-efficient buildings, rooftop solar power and waste-to-energy solutions in key urban areas, including Dhaka and Chittagong.
The project is expected to reduce more than 1.5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over its lifetime while contributing to Bangladesh's national climate goals.
