Bangladesh, one of the most densely populated countries in the world, faces a unique challenge: balancing its need for renewable energy with preserving agricultural land that sustains millions of livelihoods. While solar energy is critical to decarbonisation, it requires extensive land, often at odds with agricultural priorities. The agrivoltaic pilot project, led by BIGD with funding and strategic input from the H&M Foundation, aims to integrate solar energy production with agriculture, addressing this land-use dilemma.

“This project exemplifies our commitment to finding solutions that are both good for the environment and that are socially inclusive. By combining agriculture and solar energy, we can create a sustainable path forward for farmers and the textile industry alike.”

Christiane Dolva, Head of Innovation, Research & Demonstration, H&M Foundation

Exploring dual benefits through research and demonstration

Over the next three years (2025–2028), BIGD will establish agrivoltaic systems on pilot plots across three districts in Bangladesh, each with distinct agroclimatic conditions. Farmers will cultivate crops under solar panels, while researchers analyse outcomes such as:

• Crop yields and water usage under shaded conditions.
• Economic impacts on farmers and solar providers.
• Social and environmental benefits, including job creation and reduced carbon emissions.

The findings will be shared with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the private sector to guide the scaling of agrivoltaic systems nationwide.

Supporting a just transition for the textile industry

The project’s implications extend beyond agriculture. By integrating renewable energy into the textile value chain, it addresses a critical lever for reducing emissions in the industry. With the right policies and incentives, agrivoltaics could provide renewable energy to power textile operations while supporting the livelihoods of farmers and local communities.

Key outcomes will include:

• Quantifying revenue and costs for land used in agrivoltaics versus traditional farming or solar setups.
• Identifying effective land-sharing agreements and support systems for farmers.
• Building a scalable model that ensures environmental and socioeconomic gains.

Pioneering change through collaboration

As the first agrivoltaic initiative in Bangladesh designed for dual land use from the outset, this project represents a pioneering step towards sustainable development. BIGD’s expertise in research and its collaboration with Bright Green Energy Foundation (BGEF) ensures robust implementation and local engagement.

By addressing barriers such as policy restrictions on agricultural land use and the economic feasibility of agrivoltaics, the project aims to pave the way for a transformative solution. “This is not just a pilot; it’s a blueprint for integrating renewable energy with community development in a way that’s scalable and equitable,” said Dr Rohini Kamal, Project Manager for BIGD.