In a landmark move toward sustainable energy, PRAN-RFL Group, one of Bangladesh’s leading industrial conglomerates, has announced plans to produce renewable energy through solar power.
This electricity will be purchased by Bangladeshi garment suppliers catering to the globally renowned Swedish clothing brand Hennes & Mauritz AB, widely known as H&M.
The agreement was formalized on Wednesday (April 9), the third day of the Bangladesh Investment Conference 2025, during a signing ceremony involving H&M, PRAN-RFL Group, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.
Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, Chairman and CEO of PRAN-RFL Group; Yosef El Natour, Head of Sustainability for Production, H&M; and Vikram Kumar, Director and Regional Industry Head, Infrastructure and Natural Resources, Asia Pacific, IFC, World Bank signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organisations.
Solar power production at Moulvibazar farm
PRAN-RFL Group will generate this renewable energy at its integrated agricultural farm in Moulvibazar, which spans 350 acres. Solar panels will be installed across this vast expanse to harness solar energy, with an initial production target set at 100 megawatts. The project will be financially supported by the IFC, underscoring its commitment to promoting clean energy solutions in developing nations.
Global demand for sustainable practices
The initiative aligns with the growing global emphasis on sustainable production systems that minimise carbon emissions. H&M, as part of its broader environmental strategy, is prioritising renewable energy to mitigate its ecological footprint and contribute to a sustainable future.
By sourcing solar power from PRAN-RFL, H&M aims to ensure its Bangladeshi suppliers adopt greener practices, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Policy support needed for accelerated implementation
Speaking at the event, Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, Chairman and CEO of PRAN-RFL Group, emphasised the importance of government policy support to expedite the project.
"We will initially produce 100 megawatts of solar power. For this, the government must provide policy support for the purchase, sale, and supply of renewable energy. The sooner the policy support is provided, the sooner we can begin operations," he said.
Chowdhury’s remarks highlight the critical role of regulatory frameworks in fostering renewable energy initiatives and ensuring their seamless integration into the national grid.
IFC’s commitment to renewable energy
Vikram Kumar, Director and Head of Asia Pacific at IFC, iterated the organisation’s dedication to advancing renewable energy projects. "Renewable energy is essential to reduce environmental impact and pave the way for a sustainable future. That is why we are supporting PRAN-RFL in this transformative endeavour," Vikram said.
The collaboration between PRAN-RFL, H&M, and IFC exemplifies a shared vision of promoting clean energy and sustainable development, benefiting both Bangladesh’s economy and the global environment.
A step toward green industrialisation
This partnership marks a significant step toward integrating renewable energy into Bangladesh’s industrial sector. By leveraging solar power, PRAN-RFL Group not only supports H&M’s sustainability goals but also sets a precedent for other local industries to transition to cleaner energy sources.
As Bangladesh positions itself as a leader in sustainable manufacturing, initiatives like this will play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and fostering long-term economic growth.