The partnership between LONGi and Octopus Energy is set to increase the deployment of solar energy across the globe. The collaboration will provide consumers and businesses with greater access to advanced solar technologies, reinforcing both companies' commitment to supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Octopus Energy Generation, one of Europe’s largest specialist renewable energy investors with $9 billion of projects under management, will play a key role in this collaboration. With over 150 solar farm investments in six countries and a strong pipeline of new projects globally, Octopus Energy Generation brings extensive expertise and resources to the partnership. This experience will be instrumental in scaling solar energy solutions in the UK and beyond.
Huge untapped potential in Europe
During the signing ceremony, Zoisa North-Bond, CEO of Octopus Energy Generation, stated: “China’s rapid progress in accelerating the roll-out of green energy is nothing short of remarkable. Partnering with a world-leading company like LONGi will help turbocharge solar projects around the world and ensure they are affordable due to LONGi’s scale and size. We look forward to working together to create a cheaper, greener, and more secure energy system for everyone.”
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Ross Kent, General Manager for LONGi Solar (DG) UK & Ireland, commented: "There is a huge untapped potential for renewable energy in Europe, particularly solar energy. This partnership will help to further close this gap, accelerate the transition and bring cutting-edge solar technology innovations such as LONGi's high-efficiency back-contact technology to solar projects across Europe.”
Dennis She, Senior Vice President at LONGi said: “Octopus holds a substantial influence on the UK and global energy market. By harnessing the strengths of both parties in technological innovation and strategic resources, we are poised to deliver transformative projects worldwide. This agreement is a pivotal move towards achieving our shared vision of a sustainable energy future, setting new standards for the industry and accelerating the world’s transition to clean, renewable energy.”
Strong R&D focus
LONGi has one of the highest annual R&D expenditures in the industry. Approximately 5% of its annual operating revenue is invested in R&D, making the company a pioneer in solar technology innovation. Since 2021, the company has broken the photovoltaic (PV) cell conversion efficiency record 18 times in a row. Currently it is holding two efficiency world records, both officially confirmed in 2024.
As a result, LONGi has also been at the forefront of the development of back contact technology, specifically Hybrid Passivated Back Contact (HPBC) solar cells. This proprietary HPBC technology allows for higher conversion efficiency and superior performance under challenging conditions, making it ideal for Europe’s diverse weather patterns. Back contact technology in solar modules enhances the power output and reliability of the panels.
"Back contact technology is the future of solar technology, and LONGi is leading the way. We have invested additional R&D resources to excel the technology further,” Ross Kent added. “We believe that by pushing the boundaries of solar technology, we can provide more sustainable and efficient energy solutions for all.” (hcn)
