Energy transition needs technology, investment and long-term planning: Experts

Bangladesh and other South Asian countries need stronger technological cooperation, long-term planning, investment and domestic energy exploration to ensure energy security while moving towards a cleaner energy system, experts said.

Speaking at a strategic discussion titled "Energy Security in an Age of Transition: From Ambition to Implementation" of Bay of Bengal Conversation 2026 yesterday (5 October), they said renewable energy ambitions would remain difficult to achieve without major investment in infrastructure, technology and regulatory reforms.

M Tamim, vice chancellor of Independent University, Bangladesh, said financing and capital availability remain major challenges for energy infrastructure development.

"Whenever we talk of infrastructure for energy, there is a question of finance and absence of capital," he said, calling for greater regional cooperation and for South Asian countries to take control of their own energy future.

Sanjay Kumar Bhardwaj, professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University, India, said technological cooperation was crucial for developing countries seeking to move towards green and clean energy.

"Without technological cooperation, we cannot actually move towards green and clean energy sources," he said, stressing the importance of long-term plans for sustainable energy security and economic development.

J Alexander-Brien, founder of Maritime Frontiers, Canada, said Bangladesh's energy transition would require massive infrastructure investment and greater focus on domestic energy resources.

"Renewables are not going to happen unless there is a massive investment in infrastructure in the country," he said, adding that Bangladesh should focus on offshore exploration to reduce dependence on overseas energy imports.

Nikki Singer, executive director of the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies, Cambodia, moderated the session.