Latest news with #Longi
BBC News
3 days ago
- Business
- BBC News
'Great British Energy solar panels' for schools were made in China
The first schools in England to install what the government described as "Great British Energy solar panels" were made in China, the BBC has first 11 schools involved in the GB Energy scheme bought solar panels from Aiko and Longi, two Chinese government said the scheme was "the first major project for Great British Energy - a company owned by the British people, for the British people".Labour MP Sarah Champion said GB Energy should be buying solar panels from companies in the UK rather than China, where there have been allegations of forced labour in supply chains. "I'm really excited about the principle of GB Energy," she told BBC News. "But it's taxpayers' money and we should not be supporting slave labour with that money. And wherever possible, we should be supporting good working practices and buy British if we can."She added: "That means that yes, unfortunately, in the short term, solar panels are probably going to be slightly more expensive."There are solar panels made around the world in Taiwan, Canada, even in the UK."Longi and Aiko both told the BBC they forbid forced labour in their production and supply is the world's leading producer of solar panels and the suppliers in the Xinjiang region have been linked to the alleged exploitation of Uyghur this year, the law was changed to ban GB Energy from investing in renewables if there is evidence of modern slavery in their has dominated the market and, according to the International Energy Agency, the country's global share in all the manufacturing stages of solar panels exceeds 80%.Champion, who is chair of the International Development Select Committee, said "abuse in renewable supply chains is insidious and hard to root out".But she urged ministers to exclude known human-rights offenders from winning public contracts.A GB Energy spokesperson said all of the solar contracts issued under the schools initiative complied with the UK's modern slavery rules. The Xinjiang challenge Up to 50% of the world's supply of polysilicon - a key component in solar panels - is estimated to come from the Xinjiang Candlish is the director of GB-Sol, which calls itself the only manufacturer of conventional solar panels in the said polysilicon was "a key social issue facing our industry, with the risk of forced labour in the main mining areas".He added: "The global solar market is so dominated by China that it is difficult to avoid buying Chinese if you want the low cost energy and low carbon benefits of solar PV."Many businesses and governments - including the UK's - buy Chinese solar panels because they are cheaper than those made thirds (68%) of the solar panels imported by the UK came from China in 2024, according to HMRC trade data. That's an increase on the figure in 2023, when Chinese products accounted for 61% of UK solar imports.A report by Sheffield Hallam University in 2023 linked various solar companies to suppliers in the Xinjiang of the report's authors, Alan Crawford, said the general lack of transparency in the entire solar supply chain was greater now than it was in 2023, when his Over-Exposed report was published."Companies that were willing to comment are now silent," he said. 'Ethical supply chains' GB Energy is a state-owned company that was set up by the Labour government to invest in renewables, such as solar its first big investment, GB Energy is spending about £200m on rooftop solar for 200 schools and NHS hospitals across the first tranche of this funding has been spent on the Chinese solar panels for the 11 Department for Education told the BBC which companies had made the solar panels in response to a freedom of information request.A GB Energy spokesperson said the company would "lead the way in ethical supply chains" and insisted there was "no place for forced labour or unethical practices in the UK's energy transition".The spokesperson added: "That is why we are introducing a statutory duty on Great British Energy to prevent modern slavery in its supply chains, and reviewing supplier transparency and disclosure standards to ensure confidence in all public-facing renewable programmes."All contracts issued under this schools and hospitals solar initiative complied with UK procurement rules, including extensive requirements under the Modern Slavery Act."GBE will seek to uphold these requirements in its contracting arrangements and are actively engaging with international partners to raise the bar globally on solar supply chain accountability." China has been accused of committing crimes against humanity against the Uyghur population and other mostly-Muslim ethnic groups in the north-western region of state-sponsored programmes, detainees are forced to produce goods including polysilicon, a core ingredient in solar panels, according to the US Department of Chinese government has denied all allegations of human rights abuses in and Aiko are both members of the Solar Stewardship Initiative, which is a scheme designed to develop confidence in the supply chain and the responsible sourcing of solar Aiko spokesperson said the company was "committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical business conduct and responsible sourcing"."We take any concerns related to human rights and labour practices seriously and expect our suppliers to do the same," the spokesperson said."As part of our ongoing efforts, we engage with suppliers to promote transparency and continuous improvement in line with international guidelines. We are also closely monitoring global supply chain developments and remain committed to working with stakeholders to support a fair and sustainable solar industry."Longi said it regretted the findings of the Sheffield Hallam University report and "categorically affirms that forced labour has no place within our supply chain".A company spokesperson said the conclusions in the Over-Exposed report "may not fully reflect the comprehensive measures Longi has implemented to ensure full compliance with international labour standards"."Independent third-party audits play a critical role in verifying compliance and identifying potential risks," the spokesperson said."While the complexity of global supply chains presents challenges, Longi remains steadfast in its efforts to eliminate any risks associated with forced labour."
Sustainability Times
10-07-2025
- Business
- Sustainability Times
'This Giant Ship Runs on Sunlight!': World's Largest Solar Car Vessel Launches Maiden Journey With 4,000 Cars, Shocking the Global Shipping Industry
IN A NUTSHELL 🌿 The Yuanhai Kou is the largest solar-powered vehicle carrier, promoting sustainable maritime transport. is the largest solar-powered vehicle carrier, promoting sustainable maritime transport. 🔋 Equipped with a photovoltaic system , the vessel generates significant clean energy, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. , the vessel generates significant clean energy, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. 🚢 The ship features a dual-fuel engine , combining LNG and fuel oil, which lowers energy consumption by 20% and cuts carbon emissions by 24%. , combining LNG and fuel oil, which lowers energy consumption by 20% and cuts carbon emissions by 24%. 🌊 Longi's Sea-Shield solar modules ensure reliable energy production under harsh sea conditions, powering essential ship systems. In a world increasingly concerned with environmental sustainability, the launch of the Yuanhai Kou stands as a beacon of innovation. This vessel, heralded as the world's largest solar-powered vehicle carrier, recently completed its maiden voyage, transporting 4,000 vehicles to Greece. Built by the China COSCO Shipping Corporation, the Yuanhai Kou is not just a triumph of engineering but a significant leap towards greener shipping. Its design includes the largest shipborne photovoltaic system of its kind, generating substantial power and reducing carbon intensity by approximately 35 percent. This is not just a ship; it's a statement on the future of maritime transport. Revolutionary Green Voyage Across Continents The journey of the Yuanhai Kou from Guangzhou to Piraeus is more than just a logistical feat; it's a testament to innovative green technology in maritime transport. Loaded predominantly with new energy vehicles (NEVs), it showcases China's commitment to reducing emissions on a global scale. The ship utilizes a unique dual-fuel engine that operates on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel oil, significantly lowering its environmental footprint. This combination, along with smart loading software, enables a reduction in energy consumption by about 20 percent, cutting carbon emissions by over 24 percent compared to traditional vessels. Emphasizing safety and efficiency, the vessel's advanced monitoring systems ensure precise location tracking of onboard vehicles, providing early warnings for potential hazards. Such technology is crucial for the secure transport of NEVs over long distances, enhancing both cargo safety and operational efficiency. With each round-trip between China and Europe, the vessel avoids approximately 2,100 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, a clear indicator of its environmental impact. '56,000 Homes Become a Power Plant': California Firm Creates Largest Virtual Energy Source in US With Revolutionary Grid-Sharing Tech Harnessing Solar Power: A New Era in Maritime Energy The Yuanhai Kou's solar capabilities are powered by over 500 high-efficiency Sea-Shield solar modules from Longi, a global leader in solar technology. Positioned strategically across the vessel's upper decks, these modules contribute to an annual production of around 410,000 kWh of electricity. This renewable energy source is critical for reducing the ship's reliance on traditional fuels, saving approximately 111 tons of fuel annually and slashing CO₂ emissions by nearly 346 tons. This reduction is equivalent to planting about 38,000 trees, underscoring the ship's environmental credentials. Longi's modules are engineered to withstand the harsh conditions of the sea, from high humidity to salt spray. The robust design, featuring corrosion-resistant materials and reinforced seals, ensures consistent energy production even in challenging maritime environments. This clean electricity powers essential ship functions, from lighting to communication systems, throughout its voyage, marking a significant step forward in the integration of solar power in maritime operations. Swiss Startup Stuns the World by Powering Trains With the First-Ever PV Solar Plant Built Directly on Active Railway Tracks Technical Marvel: Design and Specifications Measuring nearly 656 feet in length, the Yuanhai Kou is a colossal presence on the water, boasting a gross tonnage of 68,252 tons and a displacement of 39,069 tons. Its 12 vehicle decks, which include eight fixed and four movable decks, can accommodate up to 7,000 vehicles, ranging from passenger cars to buses and engineering equipment. The ship's design is not only about size but also about efficiency and versatility. The vessel's photovoltaic system delivers a peak power output of 302.8 kilowatts, reflecting its cutting-edge technology. This capability, combined with its dual-fuel engine, places the Yuanhai Kou at the forefront of eco-friendly maritime transport. The ship's lifecycle carbon intensity is significantly lower than that of traditional vessels, showcasing a future where large-scale shipping aligns with environmental stewardship. World's Largest Solar Telescope Unleashes 5.6-Ton Tech Beast to Capture Unprecedented Images of Massive Sunspot Activity Future Prospects in Green Maritime Transport As the Yuanhai Kou sets a new standard in shipping, its success paves the way for future advancements in green maritime technology. Longi, the solar module provider, is already expanding its product offerings to support diverse applications both on land and at sea. Collaborative efforts with partners worldwide aim to further the transition to clean energy, highlighting the role of reliable and innovative technologies in this shift. The vessel's journey is not just about transporting goods but also about transporting ideas—ideas that challenge the status quo and push for a future where economic growth does not come at the expense of the environment. As the world watches, the Yuanhai Kou invites us to consider: how can we integrate such transformative technologies into broader logistical frameworks to achieve a sustainable future? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (25)
Reuters
30-04-2025
- Business
- Reuters
China's solar industry remains in red as trade war adds to problems
Summary Companies Longi, Jinko both report Q1 net loss of 1.4 billion yuan Losses hit 1.6 billion yuan for JA Solar, 1.3 billion for Trina US-China trade war adding to price, tariff pressures BEIJING, April 30 (Reuters) - China's solar manufacturers reported losses this week as U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war put further pressure on demand in an industry where top manufacturers were already facing low prices and tariffs on exports to the United States. Top producers Longi Green Energy ( opens new tab and JinkoSolar ( opens new tab, (JKS.N), opens new tab both reported a net loss of 1.4 billion yuan ($193 million) for the first quarter, while losses for peers JA Solar ( opens new tab and Trina Solar ( opens new tab totalled 1.6 billion yuan and 1.3 billion yuan, respectively. Make sense of the latest ESG trends affecting companies and governments with the Reuters Sustainable Switch newsletter. Sign up here. Longi, which also turned in a net loss of 8.6 billion yuan for 2024, told analysts in a call that demand for solar products was expected to be flat year-on-year in 2025. "During the reporting period, solar industry supply chain prices were at a low level, combined with overseas trade policies impacting demand, all segments of the industry were under pressure," said Jinko, where losses increased from 473.7 yuan in the fourth quarter of last year. The company's sales of solar products, including silicon wafer, solar cells and modules, fell 12.68% year-on-year to 19,130 megawatts in the quarter. Jinko said it saw the fastest growth in the Asia Pacific and Africa regions, although China, the U.S. and Europe remain the largest markets. Even before Trump's trade war, in which he has levied 145% tariffs on imports of Chinese goods, Chinese solar exports were facing tariffs in the U.S., the second-biggest solar market after China. As a result, Chinese manufacturers had set up production bases in third countries in Southeast Asia - countries that U.S. manufacturers later targeted with trade cases alleging they were flooding the market with cheap goods. In response to one of those cases, the U.S. last week finalised tariffs of as high as 3,500% on solar products from Chinese solar manufacturers with factories in Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam. The U.S. made up about 5% of Jinko's sales in the quarter, it said in its investor call. In addition to solar products, tariffs were also making it prohibitively expensive to sell battery storage systems to the U.S., Jinko told investors. Meanwhile, CSI Solar ( opens new tab, a NASDAQ-listed subsidiary of China's Canadian Solar, plans to accelerate the relocation of manufacturing to low-tariff regions and is negotiating with major clients and suppliers to reasonably share tariff costs, it said in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Monday. At the same time, CSI said it was preparing for potential U.S.-China negotiations and the adjustment of tariffs to a more reasonable range, while also pursuing tariff exemptions for some products.
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Chinese firm to build solar panel plant in Algeria
A Chinese company is planning to build a solar panel plant in Algeria to take advantage from a vast market in the African continent. Longi, one of the world's largest photovoltaic devices manufacturers, presented its investment plan at talks with the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency (AIPA) in the capital Algiers on Tuesday, the local press reported. 'A Longi delegation explained its plan to build a solar panel plant in the country…AIPA Director General Omar Rakash explained the incentives that will be offered to such a project,' the Arabic language daily Elkhabar said. The paper quoted Rakash as saying the project would support Algeria's plans to expand its reliance on renewable energy sources. It said Longi had earlier presented its planned project to the Energy and Mines Minister Mohammed Arkab but it did not provide project details. (Writing by Nadim Kawach; Editing by Anoop Menon) (
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Chinese companies to invest in Bangladesh as ties strengthen
"They will invest in Bangladesh very soon," Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said about Chinese solar panel manufacturers. Wen was visiting Bangladesh's Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, who has urged Chinese companies to relocate manufacturing plans to Bangladesh as the new government seeks to spur economic growth. The world's largest solar panel manufacturer, Chinese operator Longi, will establish an office in Bangladesh and invest in production in the country, Wen added. He said top Chinese solar manufacturers visited Bangladesh in December to explore investment opportunities. Wen noted that since Sheik Hasina's removal in August, Chinese businesses have become the largest foreign investors in Bangladesh. He also highlighted Yunus' upcoming visit to China (his first foreign visit as chief adviser) as the most significant in the countries' 50-year relationship, marking them as "trustworthy and close friends". Yunus welcomed the announcements as his government seeks to spur economic growth and stability after the raucous change in government last summer. He encouraged Chinese investors to also look at the healthcare sector. "Bangladesh needs massive investment in healthcare. Chinese hospital chains now have a unique opportunity to build hospitals here," he added. Last summer, Bangladesh's former authoritarian ruler, Sheikh Hasina, fled the country following the eruption of student protests that evolved into a national movement to oust her. The events led to some instability for foreign companies, particularly those in the textile sector. At the time, some companies changed shipment orders to manufacturing plants in surrounding countries. However, the establishment of interim leader Muhammad Yunus, a widely respected figure in the country, has allowed for a relatively stable transition of power. Yunus is well-recognised on the international stage for pioneering the use of microfinance to combat poverty, for which he won a Nobel Peace Prize in 2006. Under Hasina's rule, Bangladesh's relationship with India flourished. She is currently exiled in India, which has created disputes with Bangladesh's new government, particularly after it officially filed for her extradition in February. Analysts say that China is keen to fill this vacuum, which may explain the charm offensive with Yunus. In terms of drawing in foreign investment, Bangladesh is focused on making it a smoother process. It is currently working on merging its five regional investment promotion agencies into one centre that will help streamline foreign direct investment. The move comes after investors highlighted that having so many organisations was an obstacle to doing business in the country. "Chinese companies to invest in Bangladesh as ties strengthen" was originally created and published by Investment Monitor, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
