Bangladesh’s renewable energy ambitions depend not only on technological progress but also on projects that are financially attractive to investors. This study examines the financial feasibility and bankability of a 3 MW utility-scale solar power plant through a detailed case study, combining techno-economic simulation using the System Advisor Model (SAM) with discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis. By evaluating and analaysing key financial metrics, the study reveals that while the plant is operationally efficient and cost-competitive, its financial viability is constrained by high financing costs, elevated interest rates, compressed debt tenors, and payment delays. The findings demonstrate that institutional and financing structures, rather than technical performance, are the primary barriers to scaling utility-scale renewable energy in Bangladesh. By moving beyond theoretical projections to provide ex-post empirical evidence from an operational solar IPP, the study offers valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and private investors. It concludes with actionable recommendations on concessional finance, risk mitigation, and financing reform to improve project bankability and accelerate private investment in the country’s clean energy transition. 

Authors: Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Noor Yana Jannat
Publication Period: July 2026