Solar Panel Tax withdrawal Demand sparks Rally and Human Chain in Chattogram

24 May 2026 | 11: 27 am

Environmental and renewable energy activists have warned that existing import taxes on solar panels and related equipment are pushing clean energy technology beyond the reach of ordinary people in Bangladesh, threatening the country’s renewable energy transition and long-term energy security.

To press home their demand for tax exemptions on solar panels and associated components, a protest rally and human chain were organized in Chattogram on May 23 by ISDE Bangladesh, Forum on Ecology and Development Chattogram, CLEAN, and BWGED.

Speakers at the gathering said Bangladesh’s energy crisis is becoming increasingly severe as the country remains heavily dependent on imported gas, coal, and oil for electricity generation.

They noted that the growing reliance on fossil fuel imports has sharply increased power sector expenses and government subsidies.

At the same time, they criticized the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) and power distribution companies for proposing another nearly 21 percent increase in electricity tariffs, warning that such a move would place an additional economic burden on already struggling consumers.

The organizers argued that renewable energy — particularly rooftop solar systems — could provide a sustainable and long-term solution to the country’s mounting energy challenges.

However, high import duties and taxes have significantly increased the prices of solar panels, inverters, batteries, and other equipment, making solar adoption difficult for middle-class families, small businesses, and ordinary consumers.

According to the speakers, many citizens are interested in shifting to solar energy but are unable to afford the high installation costs caused by the existing tax structure.

The protesters demanded the immediate withdrawal of all taxes and import duties on solar panels and renewable energy equipment.

They also called on the government to include special incentives, tax holidays, and easy loan facilities for the renewable energy sector in the upcoming national budget.

Among those who addressed the rally were CAB Central Committee Vice President and ISDE Bangladesh Executive Director S M Nazer Hossain, rights activist Osman Jahangir, journalist Golam Sarwar, Advocate Pronob Kumar Biswas, and several environmental campaigners, youth leaders, renewable energy entrepreneurs, students, and civil society representatives.