A march and human chain program were held in Chattogram demanding the withdrawal of import taxes imposed on solar panels and renewable energy equipment in Bangladesh. Organizers claimed that the existing tax structure is pushing solar technology beyond the reach of ordinary people, creating a major obstacle to the expansion of renewable energy and the country’s energy security.

The program was organized on Friday, May 23, in Chattogram by ISDE Bangladesh, Forum on Ecology and Development Chattogram, CLEAN, and BWGED.

Concerns Over Energy Crisis and Rising Costs

Speakers at the gathering said the country’s energy crisis is becoming increasingly severe. As dependence on imported gas, coal, and oil for electricity generation continues to grow, costs and subsidy pressures in the power sector have also increased. At the same time, the government is facing challenges in meeting electricity demand.

According to the speakers, the Bangladesh Power Development Board (PDB) and electricity distribution companies have proposed a nearly 21 percent increase in electricity bills. They expressed concern that this would create additional financial pressure on ordinary citizens.

Rooftop Solar Presented as a Long-Term Solution

Environmental and energy sector organizers participating in the event said renewable energy, particularly rooftop solar systems, could serve as an effective and sustainable solution under the current circumstances. However, high import duties and taxes have significantly increased the prices of solar panels, inverters, batteries, and other equipment.

They said that although ordinary people, middle-class families, and small business owners are interested in adopting solar technology, the high costs are preventing implementation. As a result, the use of environmentally friendly energy is also being hindered.

Demand for Tax Withdrawal and Incentives

Speakers demanded the immediate withdrawal of all taxes and duties on solar panels and renewable energy-related equipment. They also called for special incentives, tax exemptions, and easy loan facilities for the renewable energy sector in the upcoming national budget.

They said increasing investment in renewable energy would create alternative sources of electricity generation while also reducing pressure from imported fuels.

Participation of Activists and Civil Society Representatives

Among those who addressed the program were SM Nazer Hossain, Vice President of the central committee of CAB and Executive Director of ISDE Bangladesh; Ogradut Das Gupta, Director of Songptok; Osman Jahangir, Chattogram divisional coordinator of Odhikar; journalist Golam Sarwar; Advocate Pronob Kumar Biswas; Abu Hanif Noman, President of Youth CAB Chattogram Metropolitan; and Raisul Islam, program officer of ISDE.

Environmental activists Abdul Mannan Jihad, Fayez Uddin, Karimul Islam, Labiba Tabassum, and Protiva Chakma also participated in the event, along with renewable energy entrepreneurs, students, civil society representatives, and members of the public.

Demand to Withdraw Taxes on Solar Panels

A march and human chain program were held in Chattogram demanding the withdrawal of taxes on solar panels and renewable energy equipment.

Environmental and energy sector organizers claimed that the high cost of solar technology is moving beyond the reach of ordinary people. During the Chattogram program, they called for the withdrawal of taxes on solar panels, along with incentives and easy loan facilities.