:: Photovoltaic ::

Photovoltaic technology is particularly suitable for small power requirements and remote area applications. The provinces of Sindh and Balochistan, and the Thar Desert are specially suited for the utilization of solar energy through photovoltaics. Balochistan, the largest province of Pakistan area-wise, has a population density of just 21 persons per square kilometer, with 77% of the population living in rural areas. About 90% of the villages are yet to be electrified. Large distances with absolutely no approach roads separate these villages. The houses are mostly 'kacha' hut type with walls and roofs made with a combination of mud and straw. Light is the main requirement for these houses. Most of the houses consist of only one room. The electric requirement for each house varies from 50 to 100 W maximum. Transmission lines are very expensive to build in these areas and there is only a remote possibility of grid connection in the near future. Also, the extension of grid lines for such small power requirements is very uneconomical. Local power generation is a possible solution to these problems. When considering diesel generators, transportation of fuel to such remote areas and maintenance are again a costly proposition. Therefore, solar energy looks like the best (and only) option for these areas.

National Institute of Silicon Technology, now Pakistan Council of Renewable Energy Technologies (PCRET) was established in 1981 to do research, development and promotion of photovoltaic technologies. Since then the infrastructure and know how have been developed in the field of photovoltaic and solar thermal technologies. The laboratories are equipped to produce silicon wafers, solar cells, and modules. A number of PV appliances such as solar lantern, solar home light system, street and garden lights are developed.