A Feasibility Study on the Rooftop Solar Net Metering System for Union Level Health Care Facilities in Bangladesh

Rural healthcare facilities plays a pivotal role in Bangladesh, serving almost half the population through affordable union healthcare services. However, the provision of uninterrupted healthcare relies on a dependable power supply, which remains a critical challenge. Despite recent increases in power capacity, rural areas grapple with acute electricity shortages, posing significant hurdles, especially in healthcare delivery. Amidst growing concerns over climate change and escalating fossil fuel prices, securing energy stability through a transition to renewable sources becomes imperative. Bangladesh, home to approximately 5,424 union-level healthcare facilities, spends around BDT 8 Crore annually on electricity bills for these establishments. Leveraging the nation's substantial solar energy potential, implementing a solar net metering system emerges as a compelling and sustainable solution. This approach promises cost-effective and environmentally friendly energy alternatives. This study undertook a comprehensive analysis, thoroughly assessing electricity demands and consumption patterns across all union-level healthcare facilities. After conducting a meticulous cost-benefit analysis, the effectiveness of rooftop solar net metering became evident. It showcased a substantial Return on Investment (ROI), positive Net Present Value (NPV), reduced Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), decreased CO2 emissions, and potential for acquiring carbon credits, establishing it as a highly efficient and promising solution.