In a strategic move, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) is set to abolish the Pakistan Council of Renewable Energy Technologies (PCRET) and shift its assets, budget, and resources to the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), according to official sources.
This decision follows the 5th meeting of the Apex-Committee of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) held on September 8-9, 2023. The MoST aims to revamp or eliminate outdated entities under its control, deeming it most fitting to dissolve PCRET and transfer its assets to NUST, specifically for its US-Pakistan Centre for Advanced Studies in Energy (US-PCASE). Notably, the Pak-Korea Testing Laboratory for PV Modules and Allied Equipment will be transferred to the STEDEC Technology Commercialisation Corporation of Pakistan (STCC).
Established in 1998, PCRET, formed through the merger of the Pakistan Council of Appropriate Technology (PCAT) and the National Institute of Silicon Technology (NIST), inherited mandates to promote Renewable Energy Technologies (RETS). However, sources indicate that PCRET’s failure to adapt to evolving energy sector needs and technological advancements, coupled with managerial and legal shortcomings, has led to its stagnation.
Over the past three decades, PCRET has executed projects like off-grid micro-hydel power plants, small wind turbines, stand-alone solar PV systems, and biogas plants. However, its inability to secure additional funding for the last decade, except for the Pak-Korea Testing Laboratory, signals its struggle to align with the dynamic renewable energy landscape.
The proposed abolition of PCRET involves transferring its assets to NUST, which houses the US-PCASE. NUST, under MoST’s administrative control, received USAID funding in 2012, establishing nine advanced research labs in energy-related fields. The Ministry is seeking Federal Cabinet approval for several proposals, including abolishing PCRET, revamping STEDEC, and transferring assets and budgets accordingly.
This strategic restructuring aims to align institutions with the current needs of the energy sector and propel the nation towards more effective and dynamic initiatives in renewable energy research and development.
