Home Energy Denmark eyes 500 MW offshore wind in Bay of Bengal for clean energy

Denmark eyes 500 MW offshore wind in Bay of Bengal for clean energy

by Bangladesh in Focus

Denmark is exploring a plan to develop a 500 MW offshore wind project in the Bay of Bengal, an initiative that could help Bangladesh speed its move to cleaner energy while creating coastal jobs and new businesses. The plan was discussed during meetings between Danish and Bangladeshi officials and energy experts, who said the two sides want to pair Danish technical know-how with local skills and shoreline capacity. Offshore wind farms use tall turbines placed in the sea to catch steady winds, and a 500 MW installation would add a significant chunk of reliable power to the grid. That extra power can help meet rising demand from homes, factories and services, while reducing reliance on fossil fuels that cause pollution and climate risk. Project leaders say the work could also spur local manufacturing and port upgrades, because blades, towers and support structures need transport, assembly and maintenance close to the coast. Those tasks create steady jobs for welders, electricians, technicians and truck drivers, and they can grow new small companies that supply parts and services. Officials stressed training and skills building as a key step so local workers can fill those roles and benefit directly from the project. Another advantage is technology transfer: Danish firms can share best practices in turbine design, installation and safety, and Bangladeshi engineers can learn to run and service large systems at scale. Planners said careful grid planning and stronger transmission links will be needed so wind power can move from the coast to cities without waste. Experts also noted the importance of protecting fisheries, coastal habitats and livelihoods during both construction and operation, and they called for open consultations with fishing communities. Environmental checks and staged work can reduce harm to birds, marine life and shorelines while keeping construction timelines realistic and manageable. Financing the farm will likely mix public funds, private investment and international green loans, and early talks pictured partnerships that share risk while keeping costs reasonable for consumers. Small local firms and universities could join tests and research, using the project as a living lab to study wind patterns, turbine behaviour and maintenance needs in local seas. Policymakers said clear rules on safety, hiring and contracts will make projects easier to run and help communities trust that benefits are local, fair and long lasting. The mood among planners and business leaders was hopeful, because a well designed 500 MW offshore farm can add clean energy, new jobs, stronger ports and technical skills while cutting pollution and protecting coastal life. Experts said careful planning, fair local hiring, and clear rules will be important to make benefits reach coastal communities and protect nature. Careful work could make it a lasting national asset.

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