Low-Carbon Energy Use at the University of Dhaka
In 2024, the University of Dhaka (DU) continued moving toward cleaner and low-carbon energy practices, although large-scale renewable energy systems on the main campus remain limited. The most notable verified development relating to low-carbon energy in 2024 is the installation of a new solar power system supporting DU-run educational facilities.
1. Solar Power Initiatives (2024)
UNHCR-Supported Solar System for DU-Run Schools
- In January 2024, UNHCR installed a 60 kW solar power system to support the Dhaka University Laboratory School and College (DULSC).
- The initiative was part of a broader climate-resilient energy transition plan implemented under the Energy Transition Plans Framework Project with UNDP and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- The solar system aims to:
- Reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-based grid electricity
- Improve energy efficiency across school operations
- Support cleaner, low-carbon energy use in DU-affiliated institutions
- Build awareness among students about renewable energy and sustainable practices
- Even though the installation occurred at a DU-run school rather than the central campus, it is officially part of the University of Dhaka’s operational ecosystem and contributes directly to the university’s low-carbon transition.
2. Energy Policy, Planning, and Sustainability Efforts
Although DU did not publish specific 2024 data on total low-carbon energy consumption, several ongoing activities support the university’s shift toward cleaner energy and reduced emissions:
- Commitment to sustainable campus planning as reflected in university sustainability discussions and events throughout 2024.
- Promotion of energy-efficient practices, such as reduced electricity wastage in academic and administrative buildings.
- Awareness programs and seminars under the Department of Geography & Environment and the Institute of Energy and Environment focusing on:
- Renewable energy
- Urban carbon reduction
- Sustainable technology
- Encouragement of student-led climate and green-energy innovations, particularly during Future Cities 1.0 (World Cities Day 2024) and the Environment Innovation Summit (December 2024).
3. Challenges and Gaps
- DU currently lacks large-scale on-campus solar energy production.
- Comprehensive measurement of university-wide low-carbon energy use has not been formally published.
- Transition to renewable energy remains early-stage, with most progress happening through awareness, planning, and small-scale installations.
Conclusion
In 2024, the University of Dhaka strengthened its pathway toward low-carbon energy through targeted actions, especially the installation of a 60 kW solar system for DU’s Laboratory School and College—one of the most concrete renewable energy achievements of the year. While DU’s direct low-carbon energy use on the main campus is still limited, the university continues to build awareness, capacity, and policy alignment for a broader transition toward sustainable, climate-friendly energy systems.
