The National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) has signed a contract with Foundation Solar Energy (Pvt) Ltd (FSEL) for the installation and commissioning of a 3.5 MW Solar PV System at the NUST H-12 Campus in Islamabad. The agreement was formalized by Dr Adeel Waqas, Principal of the US-Pakistan Center for Advanced Studies in Energy (USPCAS-E) at NUST, and Brigadier (Retired) Imran Masood Kashfi, Company Secretary of FSEL.
Transparent Bidding Process and Sustainability Commitment
The project was awarded through a transparent and competitive bidding process, underscoring NUST's dedication to sustainability and its transition toward cleaner and more reliable energy sources. The solar system is expected to significantly reduce the university's dependence on conventional energy, thereby lowering its carbon footprint and promoting environmentally responsible campus operations.
Institutional Expertise and Strategic Planning
The initiative leverages NUST's own institutional expertise, with USPCAS-E playing a leading role in planning and steering the project. Speaking at the signing ceremony, NUST Rector Dr Muhammad Zahid Latif highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability into institutional planning and development. He remarked, "It is just a matter of time that we would be fully solarised," emphasizing that universities have a responsibility to lead by example in advancing sustainable practices and responsible resource utilization.
Broader Sustainability Goals
Dr Latif further stated, "As with other SDGs, we are working on other facets of sustainability, and NUST, Allah willing, shall play a leading role not only in Pakistan but also internationally." The project reflects NUST's commitment to renewable energy infrastructure, responsible environmental stewardship, and innovation-driven development that contributes to Pakistan's evolving energy landscape. The contract signing ceremony was attended by senior leadership from both NUST and FSEL.
