Rakib Hasan

The importance of renewable energy is increasing day by day to meet the growing electricity demand in Bangladesh. Wind energy is one of the potential sources. Considering the country's geography, coastal areas and the influence of monsoon winds, there are several potential locations for wind power generation. However, due to various challenges and limitations, this sector has not yet developed much.

Wind Power Potential: The wind speed and density in the coastal areas of Bangladesh, especially in Cox's Bazar, Kuakata, Patuakhali, and St. Martin's, are suitable for wind power generation. According to the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund, the wind speed in coastal areas is 5-6 m/s, which is enough to operate wind turbines. It is a matter of hope that Bangladesh Power Development Board and Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission have verified the measurement and feasibility of wind speed in several areas. Some wind turbines have also been installed on a trial basis in Cox's Bazar and Patuakhali.

According to preliminary estimates, 300-500 MW of electricity can be generated from wind sources in Bangladesh. In particular, the coastal and near-shore areas are highly potential for offshore wind farms. If implemented, the problem of electricity will be reduced to a great extent.

Currently, wind power generation in Bangladesh is very limited. However, the plan includes some experimental projects. For example, Kuakata Wind Power Project: A 2 MW wind power project has been commissioned at Kuakata in Patuakhali district, which is supplying power to the national grid on a trial basis. Cox's Bazar Wind Farm: There is a plan to build a wind farm with a capacity of 30 MW in Cox's Bazar, which if implemented will make significant progress in wind power generation in the country. Although the government has set a target of generating electricity from 10% renewable energy by 2030, wind power will be an important part of it.

Challenges and Limitations: Although there is potential for wind power generation in Bangladesh, there are several challenges. The lack of advanced technology and efficient turbine supply is one of the major obstacles to wind power generation. Most of the components are imported from abroad, which is expensive. Installation and maintenance of turbines are facing problems due to lack of necessary infrastructure (such as roads, transmission lines) in coastal areas. Bangladesh lacks technical expertise and experienced manpower in the wind power sector. As a result, the industry is growing at a rapid pace. Additional safety measures are required to install turbines in coastal areas due to the risk of cyclones and tidal surges, which increases the cost.

Challenges to overcome: Although there are challenges in wind power generation, it is not impossible. It is possible to implement with proper planning, good strategy and field work. For example, more extensive research and studies are needed to identify potential sites for wind power generation. Liberal policies and incentives should be announced to attract international companies and investors. Initiatives should be taken to develop technical training and skilled manpower at the local level so that employment and opportunities increase within the country. Investment should be increased to improve the necessary infrastructure (such as roads, transmission lines) in coastal areas. Initiatives should be taken to use modern technology and design to protect wind turbines from cyclones and tidal surges.

Although there is a huge potential for wind power generation in Bangladesh, it needs policy support, modern technology and skilled manpower for its proper implementation. This sector can be further enriched through a combination of public and private initiatives. Therefore, at present, there will be a request to the policymakers of the interim government to accelerate the wind power sector by formulating a proper plan by giving priority to the wind power sector. If implemented properly, wind power will play an important role in meeting the country's energy needs and contribute to environmental protection by reducing carbon emissions.

The writer is a, Department of Sociology, Dhaka College