Engineers, scientists and businessman from across the Kingdom attended the seminar on solar energy.

The event, organized by the Eastern Province chapter of the Institution of Engineers Pakistan, was in line with the Kingdom’s initiatives to promote alternative energy.

“Participants learned of the latest advancements that are making solar energy a viable alternative for large-scale systems,” said Rizwan Ahmad, chairman of the Institution of Engineers Pakistan (Eastern Province).

The seminar theme was “Solar Energy - An Option Beyond Fossil Fuel.”

Chief guest Ahmed A. Al-Dubhaikhi of Saudi Electricity Company thanked the engineering group for disseminating knowledge and sharing expertise at the event.

M. Tahir Chaudhry of Abu Dhabi-based Tenesol, a French photovoltaic manufacturer and systems operator, delivered the keynote speech.

Even a single percent of the sun’s output could be harnessed, it would more than satisfy global energy demand, he said.

He said recent advancements in technology had reduced the cost of solar power by about a third. Solar power is also pollution free during use. This is a major advantage, he pointed out.

He also cited its current disadvantages such as high capital costs. The electricity generated is also direct current, he added.

Engineers and guests, including Tariq Barlas, vice chairman and chief executive officer of Al-Tuwairqi Holding Co. and GEC General Manager Parvez Naushahi, also learned of the history, production, cost, types and working principles of different types of solar thermal panels including plates, concentrated using solar towers and photovoltaic cells as well as various manufacturing challenges.