Steps taken to increase stake of renewable energy: Nasrul

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid said on Thursday various initiatives have been taken to increase the stake of renewable energy sources.

"Research is underway on solar, wind, water and waste. While hydrogen fuel is also in our plans," he said while witnessing a contract signing ceremony as the special guest for generating electricity from waste of Narayanganj City Corporation (NCC). 

Nasrul said that popularity of electric-run vehicles is increasing day by day, adding, "We have developed charging guidelines. Engine efficiency is high, so it is possible to drive an electric vehicle cost-effectively."

He said that due to the ongoing global crisis, energy market is volatile all over the world. The power division is moving towards uninterrupted power supply, but this war has interrupted it. 

"We will go to better position after the next month or the month after. Bangladesh encourages expansion of renewable energy. Currently, 910.82 MW of electricity is generated from renewable energy sources, but 32 projects are going on for more 1442 MW electricity," Nasrul said.

He said another 4632 MW power generation process through 76 projects is underway.

The signing ceremony for generating 6 MW power from waste of NCC was held at a hotel in the capital with Power Division Secretary Md Habibur Rahman in the chair. 

Besides, Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Md Tajul Islam was present as the chief guest, while NCC Mayor Dr Selina Hayat Ivy spoke on the occasion as the special guest. 

Tajul Islam said electricity will be generated from waste of rural villages, not only in city corporations or metropolitan cities.

"Due to the hard work of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangabandhu's daughter, the entire country has been brought under 100 percent power coverage. However, some energy crisis cropped up due to Russia-Ukraine conflict, which created unexpected situations in all countries," he said. 

Under the agreement, a Chinese company will set up a 6 MW power generation plant at Jalkuri to generate electricity from waste of NCC. 

According to the project details, 20.91 cent was fixed for per unit of electricity under 20-year contract. The project will be completed within 455 days. 

Joint Secretary Nirod Chandra signed the agreement on behalf of the Power Division.