SOHAG, Egypt — On Karaman Island in Sohag, southern Egypt, photovoltaic panels now cover the roofs of a research base run by Egypt's Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT), converting sunlight into green electricity. This is the work of the China-Egypt Belt and Road Joint Laboratory on Renewable Energy, which has achieved several 'firsts' for Egypt.
In October 2023, Egypt produced its first locally made half-cut solar cell, followed a month later by its first high-efficiency half-cell solar module. Mohamed Zahran, a professor at ASRT, said the joint lab was the core driver behind these achievements, providing comprehensive support for technological breakthroughs and independent production.
Before the lab, Egypt's PV sector lacked standardized R&D facilities, production equipment, and mature fabrication processes, with all solar cells imported. The lab established a complete PV cell R&D and production system, covering core manufacturing processes, professional equipment, and a clean facility tailored for desert climates.
The collaboration also addresses local needs with demonstration systems for on/off-grid power, water pumping, and purification, mitigating power and water scarcity. Zhou Meng, deputy director at the 48th Research Institute of China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC), said the lab has become a standout 'Chinese business card' locally, with plans to upgrade it into a regional renewable energy innovation center.
Both sides highlight the partnership's complementary advantages, with Egypt's abundant solar resources and China's mature PV technologies. Despite challenges like extreme heat during commissioning, the teams worked together, with one Egyptian contractor driving over 600 kilometers overnight to deliver a needed component, exemplifying their shared mission.
Source: prnewswire.com
