In a milestone for Bangladesh’s renewable energy sector, Huawei, in partnership with United International University’s Centre for Energy Research (CER), has inaugurated the nation’s first Solar Energy Lab with Energy Storage System (ESS) capabilities.
The facility, located at UIU’s campus, is designed to provide advanced training and research opportunities, equipping students and professionals with the skills needed in the growing field of sustainable energy.
The launch event, held at UIU’s Multipurpose Hall, on Saturday included a seminar on “The Role of Smart Grid in the Future Power System.”
Distinguished guests included power and energy adviser Prof. Dr. Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Vice Chancellor of UIU Prof. Dr. Md. Abul Kashem Mia; Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh; and Pan Junfeng, CEO of Huawei Technologies Bangladesh.
Focus on Training and Technological Advancement
The Huawei-CER solar lab aims to enhance human resource development and capacity building in Bangladesh’s energy sector.
Huawei and CER plan to collaborate on creating customized course content that addresses local market demands and integrates the latest research on digital power and renewable energy solutions.
The facility will offer a three-month certification program for young engineers and professionals, with enrollment details available on the CER website.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan emphasized the importance of transitioning to a smart grid and prioritizing battery storage. Ambassador Yao Wen noted the significance of this collaboration in promoting local talent in the renewable energy field as part of the China-Bangladesh partnership.
Contributions to Sustainability and Economic Growth
Pan Junfeng highlighted Huawei’s commitment to renewable energy in Bangladesh, noting the company’s role in establishing over 600 MW of digital power plants that have helped reduce carbon emissions by more than 207,000 tons—equivalent to planting 284,450 trees.
Shahriar Ahmed Chowdhury, Director of CER, pointed to the potential for 3,000 to 4,000 new green jobs as solar power becomes more cost-effective in Bangladesh.
A Broader Vision for Renewable Energy in Bangladesh
Established in 2010, UIU’s CER has been at the forefront of renewable energy research and policy development, with initiatives ranging from designing solar mini-grids for rural electrification to testing solar PV devices for certification.
Huawei’s efforts to support talent development in Bangladesh also include previous initiatives, such as the ICT Academy with a 5G lab at BUET, reinforcing its long-term commitment to fostering local expertise in high-tech and green energy fields.
This new solar lab underscores Huawei’s role in supporting Bangladesh’s shift to sustainable energy and its broader vision for a “Smart Bangladesh.”
