Walton launches integrated solar ecosystem

Walton has launched an integrated solar ecosystem combining power generation, energy storage and solar-powered household appliances, seeking to expand renewable energy use and reduce electricity costs in Bangladesh.

Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, minister for finance and planning, inaugurated the initiative at Walton’s corporate office in Bashundhara, Dhaka today, according to a press release.

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The ecosystem integrates solar power generation, energy storage, electricity supply to the national grid and the operation of household electrical and electronic appliances through a comprehensive solar-based technological system.

Following the inauguration, the minister visited an exhibition showcasing the initiative and inspected various products, including solar panels, power cables, energy storage inverters and batteries, solar hybrid refrigerators, air conditioners and smart televisions.

The exhibition also featured solar-powered washing machines, electric cookers, ovens, rice cookers, BLDC fans, pedestal and table fans, LED bulbs and streetlights.

The minister expressed satisfaction with the advanced technologies and energy-saving features of the products.

He particularly appreciated Walton’s efforts to introduce hybrid air conditioners, refrigerators and smart televisions that can operate using both solar power and conventional grid electricity, creating opportunities to reduce energy costs.

“Solar power is an environmentally friendly source of electricity. What Walton is doing with solar technology is something that is expected to expand across Bangladesh. Over the next one or two years, the country is expected to generate a substantial amount of electricity from solar energy. This will help meet people’s electricity needs at lower costs,” Khosru said.

Solar power would also reduce dependence on imported fuels, save foreign currency and strengthen the country’s energy independence, he said.

“Solar energy can be used not only for lighting but also to operate refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, ovens and a wide range of other electronic appliances. We hope people across the country will increasingly adopt solar energy solutions,” he added.

SM Shamsul Alam, chairman of Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC, said the ecosystem would help customers reduce electricity bills, expand the use of renewable energy, lower carbon emissions and contribute to a greener, more self-reliant Bangladesh.

Vice-chairman SM Ashraful Alam said the initiative would create new business opportunities for Walton.

“Our objective is to further strengthen the company’s financial capacity and fundamental business position while creating sustainable, long-term value for investors in the capital market,” he said.

Managing Director SM Mahbubul Alam said the ecosystem was an integrated technological framework for generating, storing and efficiently using solar electricity.

“Our ambition goes beyond ‘Made in Bangladesh’. We want to innovate and develop advanced technologies in Bangladesh and demonstrate the country’s technological capabilities in the global market,” he said.

Among others, SM Rezaul Alam, SM Monjurul Alam Ovee and Tahmina Afrose Tanna, directors of the company, were also present at the event.