Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Saturday inaugurated Walton’s integrated Solar Ecosystem, an initiative combining renewable power generation, energy storage, grid supply and solar-powered household appliances.
The initiative was unveiled at Walton’s corporate office in Bashundhara, Dhaka, as the company seeks to expand renewable energy use, improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
Walton has established rooftop and floating solar power projects at its manufacturing facilities, with a combined generation capacity of 32 megawatts (MW). The company also supplies around 1,150 megawatt-hours (MWh) of solar electricity annually to the national grid through the net metering system.
A significant portion of the electricity generated is used in Walton’s manufacturing operations, helping reduce energy costs.
The ecosystem includes solar panels, inverters, batteries and energy-efficient household appliances covering refrigeration, air conditioning, entertainment, cooking, lighting and laundry.
After inaugurating the initiative, the finance minister visited an exhibition showcasing Walton’s solar panels, power cables, energy storage systems, hybrid refrigerators, air conditioners, smart televisions, washing machines, electric cookers, ovens, fans and lighting products.
He expressed satisfaction with the technologies and energy-saving features, particularly the hybrid appliances that can operate using both solar power and conventional grid electricity.
“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,” the minister said.
He added that greater use of solar energy could help meet electricity demand at lower costs, reduce dependence on imported fuels, save foreign currency and strengthen the country’s energy independence.
Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC Chairman SM Shamsul Alam said the initiative would help consumers reduce electricity bills, expand renewable energy use and lower carbon emissions, contributing to a greener and more self-reliant Bangladesh.
Vice-Chairman SM Ashraful Alam described the ecosystem as an integrated technological solution combining solar generation, energy storage, grid supply and the manufacture of solar-compatible appliances. He said the initiative could create new business opportunities and generate long-term value for investors.
Managing Director SM Mahbubul Alam said Walton aimed to move beyond the “Made in Bangladesh” identity by developing advanced technologies locally and demonstrating the country’s technological capabilities in international markets.
Company officials said compatible hybrid refrigerators, air conditioners and smart televisions could operate directly on solar electricity under sufficient sunlight without requiring battery storage. When solar generation is inadequate, the appliances automatically draw additional electricity from the national grid.
The company has also incorporated energy storage system (ESS) technology into selected washing machines, electric cookers and ovens. Electricity generated during daylight hours can be stored in batteries and used later to operate household appliances.
Walton’s inverter and battery systems support charging from both solar power and conventional grid electricity.
The initiative also includes a backup power solution for the company’s new Takyon electric bicycle models. The battery technology can serve as a mobile energy storage system, combining electric mobility with emergency power supply capabilities.
Additionally, Walton has introduced photovoltaic solar cables designed to withstand ultraviolet radiation, moisture and demanding environmental conditions, ensuring safe and durable electricity transmission in solar installations.
The company said the integrated ecosystem reflects its commitment to renewable energy, energy-efficient manufacturing and the development of locally produced technologies.
