The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $24.3 million financing package for Muktagacha Solartech Energy Limited (MSEL) to develop a 20-megawatt (MW) grid-connected solar photovoltaic power plant in Mymensingh, Bangladesh. The project, one of Bangladesh’s first private solar ventures with international financing, will significantly enhance the country’s renewable energy capacity.
Financing Package and Project Details
As sole lead arranger, ADB structured and syndicated the project’s financing, owned by Bangladesh’s Joules Power Limited. The financing package includes a $15.5 million loan from ADB and an $8.8 million loan from LEAP 2.
The solar power plant will generate 37.9 gigawatt-hours annually, meeting energy demands and significantly reducing environmental impact. The plant will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 18,344 tons annually, contributing directly to environmental sustainability.
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Renewable Energy Growth in Bangladesh
Suzanne Gaboury, ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations said, “ADB’s financing aims to drive progress and advance sustainable energy solutions in Bangladesh. The long-term financing will help promote private sector involvement in developing renewable energy in the country, while addressing the critical capital needs of renewable projects.”
She added, “ADB is pleased to collaborate with JPL, which has demonstrated pioneering expertise and innovation in Bangladesh’s renewable energy sector, to advance sustainable solutions.”Â
Renewable energy currently represents 4.5% of Bangladesh’s energy capacity, and the government aims to increase this in its strategy. The Mymensingh solar project is a major step in expanding renewable energy, showcasing the private sector’s potential in Bangladesh’s energy.
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Founded in 2010, JPL is part of Expo Group, a Bangladesh-based conglomerate with interests in energy, logistics, and infrastructure.
Moreover, the $8.8 million contribution from LEAP 2, managed by ADB, emphasizes private sector financing’s role in sustainable infrastructure development. LEAP 2, with a $1.5 billion commitment from JICA, targets projects reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and essential services.