Swedish solar technology company Midsummer announced on July 14 that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Bangladesh's Unissol Group to expand thin-film solar deployment across Bangladesh's commercial, industrial and sustainable infrastructure sectors.
The agreement, signed through Midsummer's Asian subsidiary Midsummer Siam and Charm BD Ltd., Unissol Group's renewable energy and sustainability arm, will focus on a broad range of clean-energy applications. The companies plan to explore opportunities in sustainable tourism infrastructure, commercial and industrial rooftop solar, government facilities, ports, maritime operations, floating solar systems, climate adaptation projects and environmentally sensitive locations.
The partners also intend to work with government agencies, development finance institutions, private investors and international development organizations to support the wider adoption of renewable energy technologies throughout Bangladesh.
Eco-tourism vessel showcases thin-film solar technology
The partnership was launched alongside the commissioning of M.V. Malangi, an eco-tourism vessel equipped with Midsummer's lightweight and flexible CIGS thin-film solar panels. The installation is designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuel-powered onboard electricity while demonstrating the potential of solar technology for Bangladesh's inland waterways and sustainable tourism sector.
An inauguration event aboard the vessel brought together representatives from the Government of Bangladesh, the Embassy of Sweden, the Bangladesh Forest Department, development organizations, private-sector companies and environmental experts to discuss climate adaptation, conservation and sustainable development initiatives.
Officials highlight climate resilience and bilateral cooperation
Dr. Md. Saimum Parvez, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh on Environment, Forestry and Climate Change Affairs, said the initiative aligns with Bangladesh's priorities for climate resilience and environmental protection.
"The partnership between Unissol Group and Midsummer demonstrates how international collaboration can support Bangladesh's sustainable development goals while helping protect valuable ecosystems such as the Sundarbans."
Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks said the project demonstrates how Swedish renewable-energy technology can be deployed in challenging environmental conditions.
"Midsummer offers solar solutions that work where conventional technology cannot. Combined with Unissol's local expertise, this partnership brings together Swedish innovation and Bangladeshi entrepreneurship to deliver practical climate solutions."
Companies target broader renewable energy deployment
Ahmed Ullah, Director of Charm BD at Unissol Group, said the launch of the vessel represents a broader effort to promote sustainable tourism, environmental awareness and renewable energy deployment across Bangladesh's public and private sectors.
Lars Svensson, Head of Strategic Partnership & Business Development – ASEAN+6 at Midsummer AB, said Bangladesh presents significant long-term opportunities for thin-film photovoltaic technology across commercial, industrial, residential and maritime applications.
The company said the installation aboard M.V. Malangi serves as a demonstration project for integrating renewable energy into climate-sensitive environments while supporting Bangladesh's transition toward a more resilient, low-carbon economy.
Bangladesh expands renewable energy ambitions
Bangladesh remains among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, increasing demand for renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure and climate adaptation projects. The country's national development strategy includes expanding renewable energy capacity while strengthening environmental resilience and supporting green economic growth.
Midsummer previously completed a 500-square-meter thin-film solar roof installation at a textile manufacturing facility in Bangladesh, reflecting its growing presence in the country's renewable energy market.
