GE (NYSE: GE) and Gehrlicher Solar announced that the two companies have begun construction on a solar power plant in Aschheim, Germany; the first of many global projects planned between the two companies. The project, planned and built by Gehrlicher Solar, includes GE’s thin film solar panels. Designed to improve the ease of installation and scalability of large-scale solar power plants, the 1 megawatt solar park will cover two hectares and provide enough power for nearly 300 homes when completed in August.
GE, an established leader in the global renewable energy industry, has installed more than 25 gigawatts of renewable energy around the world. As one of the 10 largest independent photovoltaic project developers, Gehrlicher Solar has long-term international experience in the construction and operation of solar power systems of all sizes.
“Combining Gehrlicher’s experience and expertise in developing utility scale solar projects worldwide with GE’s leading solar technologies will provide a winning solution for our global customers,” said Stephan Ritter, leader of GE’s renewable energy business in Europe. “As the industry expands into new regions around the world, we believe that GE’s solar solutions will provide increasing value to the industry.”
Klaus Gehrlicher, CEO of Gehrlicher Solar AG, said, “GE’s experience in renewable energy technologies and worldwide presence make the company an ideal partner for us. We are looking forward to joining our competences for the development of large scale solar parks.”
As one of the leading providers of renewable energy products and services, GE is committed to offering best-in-class technology at the lowest cost of electricity. Earlier this year, GE announced that it had achieved several major milestones in the solar industry, including a record in solar panel efficiency and the intention to build a 400-MW manufacturing facility for this technology.