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Business & Economy

Cabinet backs rooftop-solar rules for 3,000–4,000MW expansion

The cabinet has approved a draft ordinance to accelerate rooftop solar installations, supporting a target of 3,000–4,000MW before next summer. It would clarify investment arrangements, electricity pricing, rooftop rent and maintenance. The proposal remains subject to legal vetting, with private investors and revenue-earning institutions expected to finance projects.

From 19 October 2026 — Daily Brief

19 OCT 2026 · 11/25

Bangladesh’s cabinet approved a draft ordinance on Sunday, 18 October, to speed up rooftop solar installations, as the government pursues a target of 3,000–4,000 megawatts before next summer.

The proposed Special Solar Power Installation Ordinance, 2026, received approval in principle and final cabinet approval, subject to scrutiny by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman chaired the meeting at the Secretariat.

Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani said the measure was intended to broaden participation in solar projects and strengthen energy security. The Cabinet Division linked the programme to reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and easing electricity subsidies.

Private investors would finance solar systems on rooftops belonging to government bodies, local authorities and state-owned companies under the operational expenditure model. Institutions with their own income could also finance installations under a capital expenditure model.

The proposed framework addresses gaps in long-term electricity pricing, maintenance responsibilities and the use of electricity to pay for rooftop space. Such service agreements may run for 15 years, according to the cabinet briefing.

Ghani said solar projects could be developed on both public and private buildings and on unused land. The government has already announced incentives for the expansion.

Business & Economy

Mongla rally backs solar expansion and demands Sundarbans safeguards

Speakers at a Mongla rally urged faster solar expansion alongside stronger protection of the Sundarbans. Khulna’s city administrator outlined the planned 442MW Rampal solar project. Environmental campaigners welcomed it while pressing for cancellation of nearby coal and proposed LNG projects, keeping ecological safeguards central to the debate.

Business & Economy

Oil climbs as Middle East supply fears intensify

Oil rose as traders weighed threats to Middle Eastern supplies and shipping. Brent exceeded $114 a barrel during 23 October trading, with further gains later in the session. Analysts pointed to risks from a wider conflict and uncertainty over how quickly disrupted transport routes could recover.

Business & Economy

Gold falls another Tk2,158 per bhori as BAJUS cuts prices again

BAJUS cut the VAT-inclusive price of 22-carat gold by another Tk2,158 per bhori to Tk224,182, effective from 10am on 23 October. The reduction follows the previous day’s cut. Silver also became cheaper, while jewellery-making charges remain dependent on the design.

Business & Economy

Tk592 crore Titas gas-well proposal set for ECNEC review

A Tk592 crore proposal for two Titas gas wells is scheduled for ECNEC consideration on 25 October, officials disclosed on 22 October. The wells could add about 30 million cubic feet of gas daily. Government and company funds would finance the project; approval and future production remain pending.

Business & Economy

Gold price falls as BAJUS cuts rates by Tk1,691

BAJUS cut the price of 22-carat gold jewellery by Tk1,691 per bhori to Tk226,340, including VAT, from 10am on 22 October. The association cited lower local pure-gold prices. Other gold categories and silver also fell. This was the second gold-price cut in nine days; one bhori equals 11.664 grammes.

Business & Economy

Bangladesh and Algeria discuss energy imports and wider industrial cooperation

Bangladesh and Algeria discussed energy imports, fertiliser supplies and textile cooperation in Algiers on 22 October. Officials said a hydrocarbon memorandum signed earlier could support government-to-government fuel trade, infrastructure and training. The talks set out areas for cooperation without announcing a quantified shipment or completed commercial supply contract.