The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), in collaboration with its private sector partner LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd., has successfully solarized the Bolan Medical Complex Hospital (BMCH) in Balochistan, Pakistan. The project is expected to generate approximately 1.16 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually—meeting the entire energy needs of one of the region’s largest hospitals—while reducing carbon emissions by 468 tonnes and saving Rs. 70 million per year.
This clean energy milestone marks a significant advancement in sustainable healthcare infrastructure that benefits both Afghan refugees and the local Pakistani population. LONGi provided its high-efficiency Hi-MO 9 modules, equipped with advanced HPBC 2.0 technology. The modules deliver a power output of up to 670W and a conversion efficiency of up to 24.8%, with ultra-low degradation even under high temperatures and humidity.
A ceremony commemorating the project was held on Tuesday at Bolan Medical Complex. Attendees included Mr. Shehak Baloch, Special Secretary of the Health Department representing the Government of Balochistan; Ms. Philippa Candler, UNHCR’s Representative in Pakistan; Mr. Tesfaye Bekele, Head of UNHCR Quetta; Mr. Arbab Talib, Commissioner for Afghan Refugees; and Dr. Liaqat Baloch, Deputy Medical Superintendent of BMCH, among other dignitaries.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Philippa Candler emphasized UNHCR’s long-standing support for both Afghan refugees and the host communities in Pakistan.
“Access to sustainable energy plays a vital role in enhancing public services and improving the quality of life for all,” she said. “We appreciate the collaboration with LONGi, which demonstrates the essential role of the private sector in achieving our shared goals of energy efficiency and climate resilience.”
UNHCR’s efforts to strengthen healthcare and energy infrastructure are part of a broader, ongoing commitment to support Afghan refugees and their hosts. In 2024, through a KOICA-funded initiative, UNHCR equipped BMCH with critical medical tools including 20 ICU beds, electrocardiogram (ECG) machines, diathermy units, biopsy forceps, and urology instruments.
Previously in 2022, UNHCR delivered state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment equipment to BMCH for managing digestive diseases. This included HD and 4K endoscopy systems, AI-assisted imaging devices, CO₂ insufflators, electrosurgical units with Argon Plasma Coagulation, and endoscope washers. ICU beds, suction pumps, and other essential supplies have also been provided.
This solarization project exemplifies a growing synergy between humanitarian efforts and clean technology, aiming to create a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable healthcare system for all.
