An online meeting of the National Energy Academic Network (NEAN) brought together energy experts and researchers to discuss pathways for advancing domestic solar manufacturing in Pakistan, emphasizing the urgent need for supportive policies to foster the local production of solar PV panels, batteries, and inverters. The session focused on research findings, industry challenges, and strategic measures for developing a sustainable solar manufacturing ecosystem.
The meeting, hosted by Dr. Nadia Shahzad, Associate Professor at USPCAS-E, featured a presentation by Ms. Sehar Bokhari, Research Associate, who shared key outcomes from the study “Crafting Sustainable Business Model to Drive Indigenous Solar PV Panels Manufacturing in Pakistan.” The research highlighted the potential for local manufacturing and identified significant hurdles, such as high costs of raw materials, supply chain issues, and policy gaps.
Participants addressed various domestic and global factors impacting the industry. Dr. Muhammad Dawood, Associate Professor at BZU, Multan, pointed out China’s policy of taxing raw material exports, which increases costs for Pakistani manufacturers and affects their competitiveness. Dr. Shafqat Hussain, Lecturer and PhD Researcher at MUET, noted the study’s relevance amid growing solar adoption in Pakistan and underscored the need for certification and regulatory frameworks to enhance consumer confidence in local products.
Offering a strategic perspective, Ms. Qandeel Rehman of TARA Climate Foundation recommended that manufacturers initially focus on small-scale panel production for local markets before targeting exports. Dr. Muhammad Yousaf, Assistant Professor at USPCAS-E, NUST, emphasized learning from international best practices while adapting models to Pakistan’s unique requirements. Ms. Mamoona Nabi, Senior Research Associate at IDSP, described the research as a critical step forward and advocated for swift policy development to enable local manufacturing at scale.
The session concluded with participants in agreement that approving and implementing robust policies is essential to advance indigenous manufacturing of solar panels and related components. Mr. Syed Shabir Ahmed, NEAN Focal Person, expressed his gratitude to all collaborators and attendees, reiterating the network’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s energy transition and local industrial growth.
