Evaluation of Renewable Energy Pathways for Bangladesh Based on a Multi-dimensional Analysis of Institutional Energy Demand Vis-à-vis Socio-economic Indicators and Income level

Abstract Bangladesh is at a critical stage in its energy transition, facing increasing institutional energy demand while ensuring affordable and equitable energy access across different income groups. This study evaluates renewable energy pathways for Bangladesh’s built environment through a multidimensional assessment of major building sectors. Using a multi-criteria decision-making framework, the research assesses the technical, economic, and environmental performance of five renewable energy technologies: solar photovoltaics, wind, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal energy. The evaluation incorporates factors such as capital cost, operational feasibility, lifespan, carbon footprint, and strategic benefits, while also examining the relationship between energy consumption, household energy expenditure, income levels, and national energy tariffs. The findings identify solar photovoltaics as the most suitable renewable energy option for Bangladesh due to its scalability, declining costs, and compatibility with both urban and rural energy systems. This research also provides a context-specific framework for advancing Bangladesh’s energy transition by aligning renewable energy deployment with socio-economic resilience, institutional capacity, and sustainable development goals, recommended valuable guidance for policymakers, professionals, and energy stakeholders.