Current Status: Announced
Representational Photo: Source: REUTERS
Matarbari 50 MW Solar Power Plant, also known as CPGCBL Matarbari Solar Park, is a proposed solar Photovoltaic (PV) power plant to be situated on Matarbari Island under Maheshkhali Upazila in Cox’s Bazar District of Bangladesh (Location: 21.7371, 91.9013) around. It is proposed by the Coal Power Generation Company Bangladesh Limited (CPGCBL), a State-owned Enterprise (SOE) under the Power Division, as a Public Power Plant (PPP) for 20 years. As per the schedule, the power plant will start commercial operation by 30 December 2024 and retire on 30 December 2044.
Capacity
The installed capacity of the power plant is 50 MW.
Context
The Matarbari 50 MW Grid Tied Solar Power Plant Project is a major step towards sustainable energy in Bangladesh, with a capacity of 50 MW. Led by the Coal Power Generation Company Bangladesh Limited (CPGCBL), it's located in Matarbari, Cox's Bazar district. Expected to be completed by December 30, 2024. Funding for this project comes from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), reflecting global cooperation for clean energy. Starting on September 26, 2021, the project is currently awaiting approval from the planning commission for the Project Development Proposal (PDPP). Once operational, it aims to generate 1 TWh of energy and reduce CO2 emissions by 516 k tonnes over its lifetime, aligning with Bangladesh's commitment to renewable energy (SREDA, 2023).
Land Acquisition
The land area acquired by the plant is still unknown.
Finance
The financial support will be given by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) (SREDA, 2023).
Sponsor
It is proposed by the Coal Power Generation Company Bangladesh Limited (CPGCBL) (SREDA, 2023).
Contractors
The Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor has not been found yet for this power plant (SREDA, 2023).
Fuel Supply
The power plant is a solar power plant which runs with the energy from sunlight.
Power Generation
The plant is not in generation yet.
Environment
Ground-mounted solar panels offer several advantages compared to rooftop installations. Placed strategically on the ground to optimize sunlight exposure, these panels increase energy production. Their flexibility in positioning allows placement in open areas with minimal shading, providing more freedom to choose suitable sites. In addition to contributing to environmental conservation by generating clean, renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, ground-mounted solar panels help conserve land resources by utilizing non-arable or unused spaces. Despite these benefits, it's crucial to recognize that installing these panels may lead to habitat disruption, land-use conflicts, and potential visual impacts. To address these challenges and maximize positive environmental impacts, careful planning and consideration of ecological factors are essential for ground-mounted solar projects.
References
SREDA (2023) “SREDA | National Database of Renewable Energy”. Sustainable And Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA): Accessed on 29 December 2023.
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