, Oct. 20 -- The government has issued the Special Solar Power Installation Ordinance, 2026, introducing strict penalties for theft of solar power and equipment damage, as it seeks to expand the use of solar energy, attract private investment and bring greater discipline to the sector.

Under the ordinance, stealing solar power or its equipment is punishable by up to three years in prison, a fine of Tk 50,000, or both.

Damaging solar equipment carries a maximum penalty of five years in jail, a fine of Tk 5 lakh, or both.

The ordinance was issued on Monday night by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs.

The Cabinet gave policy and final approval to its draft at a mee...