Civil society and community representatives in Rajshahi have called for an immediate declaration of rooftop solar technology as a national priority to ensure sustainable energy security, environmental protection, and a revolutionary transformation of the power sector.

Speaking at a human chain programme in Panchabati on Sunday, women leaders Farida Begum and Abeda Begum, Paribartan Director Rashed Ibne Obaid Ripon, and Campaign Associates Rony Roy and Soma Bhowmik emphasized that achieving renewable energy targets requires active support and participation from local government institutions.

The programme was jointly organized by Paribartan, Poribesh O Unnayan Forum–Rajshahi, CLEAN, BWGED, and other local community platforms, with journalists, youth representatives, women leaders, and environmental activists in attendance.

Speakers highlighted that Bangladesh’s power sector has long relied on costly, centrally managed, import-dependent fossil fuels, putting significant pressure on the economy. In contrast, rooftop solar offers a clean, accessible, and low-cost solution, but it remains underprioritized at the policy level.

“Rooftop solar is not just a power-generation technology; it is a tool for ‘energy democracy’ that empowers ordinary people,” the speakers said. They noted that unused rooftops of union parishad buildings, schools, hospitals, and rural markets could support a strong local-level energy transition, easing pressure on the national grid and reducing reliance on imported fuel.

Community-based solar initiatives could also save foreign currency, create local employment, and provide affordable, equitable energy access for women and low-income families.

At the end of the programme, participants presented a five-point demand to local government bodies and administration officials.