The National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education (NCPRE) at IIT Bombay was launched in 2010 and is a part of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission of the Government of India.
The centre envisages both basic and applied research activities. The basic research activities include silicon solar cell fabrication, characterization, energy storage, new materials and novel PV structures. Development of power electronic interfaces for solar PV systems, new product designs, technology assessment and broader issues like sociological and environmental impact are an important part of the activities of the centre.
NCPRE has set up a full-fledged facility for cell fabrication, characterization as well as PV modules and systems, and works on significant areas of research in these areas. Manpower training in PV through direct teaching, web and video courses, hands on training and through PUMP-In is envisaged.
In the second phase, the manpower training in PV through NCPRE will grow in magnitude as the JNNSM accelerates its efforts to meet the target of 20 GW by 2022. The NCPRE will be well placed with the sufficient experience and infrastructure for education and training to help the nation to meet its demand.
Eventually, NCPRE aims to make solar PV a cost-effective and relevant technology for meeting a significant part of the energy needs of India.
More details about NCPRE, its facilities and events are given on its dedicated website.