The joint laboratory is supporting local solar research, technology development and renewable energy applications in Egypt
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hrui / iStock [Photo source]
The China-Egypt Belt and Road Joint Laboratory on Renewable Energy is advancing solar technology research and development in Egypt. Located on Karaman Island in Sohag, southern Egypt, the facility is operated in cooperation with the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT) and serves as a platform for research, testing and the development of photovoltaic technologies. This was reported by Science and Technology Daily, a partner of TV BRICS.
The laboratory has contributed to several milestones in Egypt's solar industry. In October 2023, the country produced its first locally manufactured half-cut solar cell, followed a month later by its first locally manufactured high-efficiency half-cell solar module.
"The joint lab is the core driver behind these achievements, providing comprehensive support for our technological breakthroughs and independent production," said Mohamed Zahran, a professor at the ASRT.
The facility has established a complete photovoltaic research and production system, covering key manufacturing processes, specialised production and testing equipment, as well as standardised research and production facilities adapted to desert conditions. Zhou Meng, Deputy Director of the Research Department at the research institute involved in the project, said the partners plan to further develop joint research and promote advanced photovoltaic technologies.
The cooperation draws on the complementary strengths of the two countries. Egypt receives around 3,000 hours of full sunshine annually, providing favourable conditions for solar energy development, while China has extensive expertise in photovoltaic technologies, equipment and supply chains. The joint laboratory has also developed demonstration projects, including on- and off-grid photovoltaic systems, solar-powered water pumping and water purification systems.
According to Aref Eliwa, a professor at ASRT, the facility provides a platform for scientists from both countries to conduct joint research and develop solutions adapted to Egypt's environmental conditions.
"Through the invaluable platform of the joint lab, scientists from China and Egypt can carry out deep cooperation and drive joint innovation," Eliwa noted.
Collaborative work has helped address technical challenges related to high-resistance dense-grid solar cells, improving their efficiency and supporting the development of photovoltaic products suited to local solar conditions.
Looking ahead, the partners plan to develop the joint laboratory into a regional renewable energy innovation centre. The facility is expected to expand activities in collaborative research, technology demonstration, technical training and the promotion of renewable energy solutions, contributing to the development of solar technologies in Egypt and across Africa.
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