Image: Wikipedia

Bangladesh has taken a major step forward in its renewable energy journey by exporting photovoltaic modules for the first time. Once solely dependent on imports, the country shipped its inaugural consignment of solar modules to the United States this week in a 40-foot container.

Dhaka-based module manufacturer Radiant Alliance confirmed the shipment to CleanGrid Incorporation, a U.S.-based company that placed an order totaling 64.60 MW. The modules — a mix of 100 W and 200 W PERC and TOPCon technologies — were assembled at Radiant Alliance’s 600 MW production facility in Ashulia, on the outskirts of Dhaka. The plant is capable of producing modules ranging from 50 W to 700 W in size. The solar cells used in this batch were sourced from manufacturers in Laos and Indonesia.

Radiant Alliance CEO Masudur Rahim said the company is currently in discussions with two other U.S. clients for potential orders between 600 MW and 700 MW, expected to be delivered in 2026. “We are exploring the African market as well,” he added. “As the world embraces sustainable alternatives, Radiant Alliance Limited is proud to lead the way in bringing ‘Made in Bangladesh’ solar technology to the international stage.”

Dipal C. Barua, former president of the Bangladesh Sustainable and Renewable Energy Association (BSREA), called the U.S. export a significant milestone for a country that has historically relied on imported modules. However, he noted that Bangladesh continues to meet most of its domestic module demand through imports from China.

Currently, Bangladesh has 1,550 MW of installed renewable energy capacity, with 1,256 MW generated from solar power.