Bangladesh's Solar Home System programme is expanding rural power access with carbon finance support from the UK-backed Carbon Initiative for Development (Ci-Dev). The initiative has funded 3.3 million solar home systems, adding 340 MW of clean energy capacity and cutting over 1 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. More than 10 million people now have improved access to electricity, reducing reliance on diesel and kerosene while lowering household energy costs. Carbon credits provide an additional revenue stream that keeps these off-grid projects financially viable over time. Beyond Bangladesh, Ci-Dev aims to help other countries build the systems needed to tap carbon markets for clean energy development. The programme shows how carbon finance can support both climate goals and sustainable development in underserved communities.
