The Ministry of Science & Technology (MoST), in collaboration with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), proudly inaugurated the Pakistan–Korea PV Modules Testing Laboratory on 6 December 2025. This state-of-the-art facility, established under the project titled “Establishment of PAK-KOREA Testing Laboratory for PV Modules and Allied Equipment”, represents a significant milestone in Pakistan’s journey toward sustainable energy, technological advancement, and industrial development. The laboratory has been developed through a grant-aid project from KOICA amounting to 9.5 million USD, alongside the local Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) contribution of Rs. 185.8 million. Once accredited, it will be the first certified testing facility for solar panels in Pakistan.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Mr. CHANG Won Sam, President of KOICA, H.E. PARK Jae-Lark, Ambassador In-Charge of the Republic of Korea, and Federal Secretary for Science and Technology, Shahid Iqbal Baloch, who all graced the event and highlighted the importance of this milestone in Pakistan’s renewable energy sector.
KOICA constructed the laboratory and provided, installed, and commissioned all required equipment for solar panel testing. KOICA also conducted a nine-month training program to ensure smooth operation during and after project completion. Accreditation of the laboratory against ISO-17025 standards, covering IEC-61215 & IEC-61730, will be sponsored and facilitated by the Korean side.
MoST provided all local support required for project execution, including an 8-kanal plot at Plot No. 55, Street 7, Sector H-8/4, Islamabad, and will ensure the sustained operation of the laboratory to support the indigenization of PV panel manufacturing technology in Pakistan.
The Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) has initiated the process to include solar panels in its list of mandatory items. PSQCA will conduct random testing of samples from each imported consignment through the newly established Pak-Korea PV Modules Testing Laboratory to ensure quality control of solar panels in the country. Furthermore, the laboratory aims to achieve Certification Body Testing Laboratory (CBTL) status under the IECEE scheme, enabling it to issue IEC compliance certificates, thereby facilitating local PV panel manufacturers in exporting their products to Europe and Central Asia.
During the meeting with the Korean delegation, Federal Minister Khalid Hussain Magsi highlighted the importance of longstanding bilateral relations between Pakistan and the Republic of Korea, emphasizing the mutual benefits of partnership and cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. He expressed optimism about fully leveraging Korean support and expertise to advance Pakistan’s development goals. The Federal Minister further said that the Prime Minister’s vision is to increase cooperation with Korea in science, technology, and renewable energy sectors to accelerate Pakistan’s development objectives.
Federal Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Shahid Iqbal Baloch, delivered an inspiring address celebrating Korea’s remarkable transformation. “Whenever the world speaks of Korea, it speaks of a miracle — a miracle born not of luck but of unshaken courage,” he remarked, recalling how Korea rebuilt itself through relentless hard work, political vision, and education after the devastations of war.
“The establishment of this lab is not merely a technical achievement but a testament to the enduring friendship between our nations,” he stated. “It represents Korea’s belief in Pakistan’s potential and their commitment to move forward together with ambition, confidence, and clarity.”
Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. CHANG Won Sam, President KOICA, stated:
“Sustainable and reliable energy will be absolutely vital for Pakistan’s future. In this regard, the country’s abundant sunshine offers a tremendous opportunity. I firmly believe Pakistan is well-positioned to accelerate its transition toward clean and green energy. Korea aims to support Pakistan in strengthening its capacity to test and certify solar PV modules according to international standards. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1983, Korea and Pakistan have continuously strengthened their partnership and expanded cooperation.”
Dr. Jaesang Park, Project Manager at KOICA, briefly emphasized Korea’s commitment to Pakistan’s progress, noting that the project demonstrates the strong cooperation between the two countries in renewable energy. He expressed confidence that the testing lab will significantly contribute to Pakistan’s solar industry, adding that “Pakistan’s success is Korea’s success.”
The Pakistan–Korea PV Modules Testing Laboratory, a joint initiative of the Ministry of Science and Technology and KOICA, represents a vital milestone in strengthening Pakistan’s renewable energy sector, enhancing industrial capacity, and creating skilled opportunities for the youth—bringing science closer to society and quality closer to industry.
