JBS Vol 10. Num 1. 2008 - The Untapped Energy Mine: The Revolutionary Scope of Renewable Energy for Bangladesh

The world faces an unprecedented energy crisis. Dependence on oil, coal, natural gas and uranium has led to their rapid depletion and skyrocketing energy prices; environmental consequences like global warming, acid rain and nuclear contamination; and political consequences like threatened national security and energy wars. There is an urgent need to transition to energy options that are clean, affordable, secure, sustainable and peaceable. Bangladesh is one of the worst victims; it is also in one of the most advantageous positions to make the transition. The country is richly endowed with renewable energy sources: light, heat, wind, water movement, and photosynthesis. Renewable energy technologies including photovoltaics, wind turbines, hydroelectric generators, solar thermal systems, solar greenhouses, biogas plants and solar cookers for a wide range of domestic, commercial and industrial purposes can revolutionize the economy. The article surveys the renewable energy initiatives in Bangladesh since the 1980s pilot phase and suggests the revolutionary prospect of building upon the evolving infrastructure on a massive scale. By urgently tapping into its practically untapped “energy mine” of renewable energy sources, not only could Bangladesh solve its own energy crisis, it could also set an inspiring example to the world! The article outlines a Policy-Program-Practice (PPP) continuum towards achieving this goal.