ISLAMABAD, Feb 26 (ABC): The Pak-Korea solar testing lab will launch commercial operations in 2026 as it moves to secure ISO/IEC-17025 accreditation from the Pakistan National Accreditation Council (PNAC). This step will strengthen quality assurance in Pakistan’s fast-growing solar market and improve oversight of solar panel imports and local production.
Fully operational testing facility
According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the Pakistan-Korea PV Module Testing Laboratory has become fully operational. Engineers have installed and commissioned advanced equipment at the facility. The lab can now conduct up to 40 different technical tests on solar panels.
These tests evaluate photovoltaic (PV) modules according to internationally recognized standards. As a result, manufacturers and importers can verify product quality before market entry.
Accreditation process underway
The lab will apply for ISO/IEC-17025 accreditation in May 2026. Officials scheduled the final phase of specialized training in Korea for March-April 2026. After completing this training, the management will formally submit the accreditation request.
Authorities expect PNAC to complete the accreditation process by mid-2026. Once PNAC grants accreditation, the lab will issue internationally acceptable test reports.
Strengthening regulatory enforcement
Accredited local testing will allow regulators to enforce quality standards more effectively. It will also reduce reliance on foreign laboratories and shorten compliance timelines.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) plans to add solar panels to its mandatory certification list. This move will help prevent substandard solar products from entering the local market. It will also protect consumers from low-quality equipment.
The Pak-Korea solar testing lab will support this process by providing accredited test reports. Consequently, regulators will gain stronger compliance tools, and market transparency will improve.
Boost for investment and exports
Industry stakeholders believe the lab will enhance investor confidence in Pakistan’s renewable energy sector. Reliable local testing will encourage domestic manufacturing. It will also help producers meet international standards more easily.
Moreover, internationally recognized certification may strengthen the export potential of Pakistan’s solar equipment industry. Manufacturers will find it easier to access foreign markets when products meet global benchmarks.
A milestone for solar quality assurance
The launch and accreditation of the Pak-Korea solar testing lab mark a major step for Pakistan’s renewable energy sector. The facility will improve product reliability, strengthen consumer protection, and align Pakistan’s solar infrastructure with global quality standards as the country expands its solar capacity.