Community Awareness on Renewable Energy

A community courtyard meeting titled “Community Awareness on Renewable Energy” was organized at Harinchhara Majher Char in Lalmonirhat on 28 September 2026 as part of the Renewables Now campaign. The initiative was jointly organized by OAB Foundation and Dhoritri Rokhhay Amra (DHORA) to increase awareness among local communities about renewable energy and encourage greater interest in clean and sustainable energy solutions. The meeting was organized in the context of Bangladesh’s stated target of meeting 20 percent of the country’s total electricity demand from renewable energy by 2030. The discussion focused on the importance of strengthening awareness and community participation to support the wider adoption of renewable energy at the local level. Instead of a presentation-based format, the courtyard meeting placed local people’s experiences, opinions, questions, and practical challenges at the centre of the discussion. Participants openly shared their experiences with renewable energy, particularly the use of solar power in their daily lives. Several local families participating in the meeting shared that they have been using solar panels for an extended period. Based on their experiences, solar energy has helped them meet a range of everyday electricity needs while also reducing their electricity-related expenses. Local residents explained that they use solar power for operating fans, lighting their homes, charging mobile phones, and irrigation in agricultural fields. Their experiences demonstrated some of the practical applications of solar energy in meeting household and livelihood-related needs. One local participant shared their experience of using solar panels for household electricity needs, including fans, lighting, mobile charging, and agricultural irrigation. The session was facilitated by Azmain Islam, Rangpur Divisional Coordinator of OAB Foundation. He discussed the potential of renewable energy with local residents, focusing on the use and benefits of solar power and opportunities for expanding clean energy solutions at the community level. The session also provided space for local residents to raise questions and share their experiences. Their perspectives were taken into consideration while discussing the opportunities, potential, and importance of renewable energy. Particular attention was given to providing information and encouraging residents who do not yet use solar panels to explore clean and renewable energy options. The discussion highlighted that renewable energy is not simply an alternative source of electricity. It can also contribute to reducing environmental pressure, promoting sustainable energy use, and developing a cleaner energy system for future generations. Participants also emphasized the need for more information-based discussions, awareness activities, and initiatives to expand the use of clean energy at the local level. Through the courtyard meeting, participants were encouraged to share information about renewable energy and clean energy practices with their families and surrounding communities, helping to strengthen awareness and community engagement. OAB Foundation continues to promote community-based awareness and participation on renewable energy, environmental protection, and sustainable development as part of its broader climate and sustainability initiatives.