“There should be a specific standard and some compliance for the bidders who want to work as engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors for solar projects,” said Nurul Akter, chief executive officer (CEO) and director of EnergyPac, a leading supplier of solar products, while addressing the event at Radisson Blue Dhaka Water Garden hotel in the city.

Solar Quarter, a leading regional organisation in renewable energy promotion, organised the function where awards were also given to best performing companies.

Deputy Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change Habibun Nahar addressed the function as the chief guest while other speakers include Additional Secretary of the same ministry Billal Hossain, President of Bangladesh Solar and Renewable Energy Association (BSREA) Dipal C Barua, President of Bangladesh Solar Module Manufacturers Association (BSMMA) Munawar Moin and a representative of Renewable Energy of Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL).

At the function, local leading renewable energy firm Rahimafrooz Renewable Energy Ltd received awards in four categories for its outstanding performance in implementation of solar and renewable energy projects.

Dipal C Barua said Bangladesh has vast potential in rooftop solar power. “But for lack of awareness, this potential are not being utilised,” he added.

Munawar Moin said the government should take initiatives for standardisation, enlistment qualification, tax incentives and skills training for escalating solar rollout and quality execution.

He also underscored the need for dedicated executing agency to achieve the national renewable energy targets.