The Engineering Faculty of University of Jaffna (UoJ) has initiated the conceptual development of a Center for Excellence (CoE) in Solar Research that is expected to be, when set up, the first of its kind in Sri Lanka. The Center will be equipped with latest testing equipment on measuring solar irradiance as well as other parameters. We feel the setting up of this CoE is important as a reference point for both academia and the industry, given that the country has now embarked on up taking solar technology. The CoE will undertake both solar photovoltaics (PV) and solar thermal research. While there are some accomplishments in solar PV applications in this country, the solar thermal field remains relatively unexpired.
An inaugural ceremony in relation to setting up the CoE was held on 10th August 2017. This was initiated to provide substantial involvement to promote renewable energy in the country. This was inaugurated with a visitor from the USA, Mr. Bruce Anderson, a MIT Alumini, who has researched deep in to solar thermal technology (CSP). He has researched ways to make CSP for project development while expanding local manufacture and make solar energy more available on a 24x 7 day basis. He has now incorporated 24x7Solar operated from Virginia and has set up offices in some developing world countries.
