Message From Director-IIEST, Shibpur

Prof. V.M.S.R. Murthy, Director, IIEST Shibpur

 The DST-IIEST Solar PV Hub is a collaborative initiative between the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST), Shibpur—an Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Education. This unique facility in India is dedicated to advancing the fabrication, characterization, and testing of solar cells, modules, and photovoltaic (PV) systems. The key objectives of the hub are outlined as given below:

  • The Hub aims to drive the modernization and enhancement of solar energy devices and systems for local and national solar cell and module manufacturing industries.
  • It also serves as a critical resource for research and educational institutions by supporting research activities and fostering skill development in solar energy and photovoltaics.
  • Notable recent initiatives at the Hub include PV recycling, module degradation studies, and the development of a microgrid facility.
  •  Aligned with IIEST’s vision of a clean and green campus, the Hub will play a pivotal role in advancing rooftop solar energy initiatives and supporting the institute’s sustainability goals.

The "DST-IIEST Solar PV Hub" is one of the leading centers for crystalline silicon solar cell research, alongside other prominent hubs at IISc Bangalore and IIT Madras. The DST-IIEST Solar PV Hub was inaugurated on October 27, 2020, by Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal "Nishank," the then Minister of Education, Government of India to function as a leading research hub in the eastern region. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to DST, Government of India, for partnering with IIEST to implement this high-level R&D and skilled manpower development program under the National Solar Energy Mission. We also extend our gratitude to Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), GoI for providing seed funding for research and development in amorphous and thin-film solar cells. IIEST management has provided robust infrastructural support, including a highly skilled team, to ensure the smooth installation, operation, and maintenance of sophisticated equipment and laboratory facilities essential for the Hub's success.

We are confident that the DST-IIEST Solar PV Hub will play a transformative role in the regional and national shift from fossil fuels to solar energy.