China, Pakistan Plan Solar Partnership to Face Energy Crisis

By Andrew Williams, RedGreenandBlue.org

In an effort to tackle Pakistan’s growing energy shortage, representatives of the burgeoning Chinese solar industry have offered to cooperate with the country on a high profile partnership to manufacture solar energy equipment.

The offer was made at a press conference to promote the 2010 International Solar Cities Congress, to be held in Shangong province. Speaking at the event, Huang Ming, Vice?President of the International Solar Energy Society said, “Pakistan and China are like brothers. We are eager to promote our solar energy industry in Pakistan.”

Outlining the proposed plan, Yuan Xiuhe, Deputy Mayor of Dezhou City, detailed a three-point plan intended to move the project forward. The first step, he said, was the readiness of Chinese solar power companies to establish offices in Pakistan. Secondly, he said, China is also ready to send a team of technicians from the prominent Hinin Group to set up the manufacturing of high?quality cost effective solar energy equipment in Pakistan. Finally, the establishment of joint-ventures between Chinese and domestic companies would cement the partnership and promote a solid future for solar power in the country.

The intention is that the location of Chinese facilities in Pakistan would help to significantly lower costs and boost job opportunities.

A deal has not yet been inked, although the Pakistani government, faced with the growing threat of devastating power shortages, is likely to consider the proposal carefully. Any strategy able to bring stability and create employment in an increasingly volatile region is unlikely to be treated lightly.