The Flare panel facilitates a conversation in an interview with Osman Mohammad Maud, who serves as the Head of LONGi Pakistan & Afghanistan Branch and the Head of Technical Operations for the Central Asia Region. While talking toFlare, he discusses the significance of advanced cell technology as one of the key developments in the field. Cells with higher efficiency produce greater energy output from the same space. LONGi is dedicated to utilising advanced back-contact technology, which is among the top technologies available in the industry
Interview:
Osman Mohammad Maud
Head of LONGi Pakistan & Afghanistan Branch,
Head of Technical Operations, Central Asia Region
Flare: Kindly share your professional journey and experiences that shaped your leadership in renewable energy.
Osman Mohammad Maud: I have worked in the solar industry for many years and witnessed its development. I joined LONGi as a Technical Manager, focusing on solar modules, technology, and technical support. As the market evolved, my responsibilities expanded, and I am now involved in BESS sales and solutions. This experience taught me that technical expertise is important, but understanding customer requirements and providing reliable, long-term solutions is equally essential.
Flare: How would you describe LONGi’s global vision and strategic role in Pakistan and Central Asia?
Osman Mohammad Maud: For me, LONGi is not simply about selling solar panels. Our focus is providing reliable technology customers can trust and that delivers long-term value. We continuously innovate and improve products according to market and customer needs. In Pakistan and Central Asia, we aim to be a reliable technology partner, offering strong solar and, increasingly, energy-storage solutions such as BESS.
Flare: What key factors are driving Pakistan’s rapid transition towards solar energy?
Osman Mohammad Maud: Rising electricity costs and energy demand are major factors. Customers want to reduce electricity expenses and gain greater control over energy costs. Solar has become more accessible, with installations across homes, agriculture, commercial buildings, and industry. It is now familiar to ordinary consumers rather than limited to large projects. This combination of cost pressures, strong solar resources, and accessibility is driving adoption.
Flare: What are the major opportunities and challenges for Pakistan’s solar industry?
Osman Mohammad Maud: There are major opportunities in residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, and utility-scale solar, while BESS also has significant potential. Higher-efficiency modules can help customers generate more energy where space is limited. However, misinformation remains a challenge. People may stand on panels, causing invisible microcracks, use unsuitable cleaning chemicals, or clean panels during peak sunlight hours. Fake panels are another concern. The opportunity is not only to install more solar, but to build a technically mature industry based on quality products, proper installation, maintenance, and customer education.
Flare: What innovations are improving solar efficiency, reliability, and performance?
Osman Mohammad Maud: Advanced cell technology is a major development. Higher-efficiency cells generate more energy from the same area. LONGi is working with advanced back-contact technology, one of the leading technologies in the market. We are also improving wafers, temperature coefficients, shading performance, and other module features. Ultimately, innovation should deliver higher energy yield, better real-world performance, and greater long-term value.
Flare: How can solar help Pakistan’s industrial, commercial, agricultural, and residential sectors reduce costs and improve productivity?
Osman Mohammad Maud: Solar can benefit almost every sector because electricity is a high cost for businesses and households. Industries and commercial customers can reduce operating costs, while agriculture can use solar for applications such as irrigation. Residential customers can lower bills and gain greater control over energy consumption. However, solutions should be customer-specific. We need to understand the customer’s load, available space, operating pattern, and future requirements before recommending a system.
Flare: How is LONGi ensuring product quality, authenticity, and customer confidence in Pakistan?
Osman Mohammad Maud:LONGi is a Tier 1 company, and our panels undergo multiple testing and quality-control stages. We work with distributors across Pakistan and have flagship stores in cities including Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Peshawar, providing access to authentic A-grade products. Our serial number is placed under the glass and can be verified through our app, making authentication easier. We also have a large team across Pakistan to provide local support.
Flare: As Head of Technical Operations for Central Asia, how do you see the renewable energy potential of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and neighbouring markets?
Osman Mohammad Maud: The region has significant potential. Pakistan has strong solar resources and a large energy market, while Afghanistan and neighbouring markets also offer opportunities, especially where reliable electricity is limited. Solar and energy storage will increasingly work together. Understanding local needs and providing practical solutions will be key to making renewable energy more reliable and accessible.
Flare: What steps are needed to accelerate renewable energy adoption?
Osman Mohammad Maud: Customer education, supportive policies, transparency, and quality standards are essential. Customers need clear information about products, system design, maintenance, and performance. Policymakers should provide consistent policies that encourage investment, while industry stakeholders should educate customers rather than simply sell products. These measures will support sustainable market growth.
Flare: How important are technical training, skilled manpower, and knowledge sharing for sustainable industry growth?
Osman Mohammad Maud: They are essential. Even quality modules cannot perform properly if systems are poorly designed, installed, or maintained. We train installers and share technical knowledge with partners and customers. As technology evolves, professionals must continuously learn about modules, installation, safety, and maintenance. Strong technical skills lead to better systems and satisfied customers.
Flare: How do you see Pakistan’s solar future, and what role will LONGi play?
Osman Mohammad Maud: Solar will remain vital to Pakistan’s energy future, while BESS will become increasingly important. LONGi has entered the BESS market as demand for energy storage grows. We will continue advancing solar technology, improving efficiency, and adapting solutions to customer needs and evolving energy policies.
Flare: What message would you give young engineers, entrepreneurs, and professionals entering Pakistan’s renewable energy sector?
Osman Mohammad Maud: Keep learning and asking questions. Renewable energy is evolving rapidly, so verify information and build strong technical fundamentals. Gain practical experience and understand customers’ real needs. The sector offers significant opportunities for professionals who remain curious, technically strong, and open to learning.
