Hanwha Solutions\' Qcells division is expanding its high-efficiency solar cell technology from terrestrial use into the space market. The company said on Tuesday it signed a contract with Hanwha Systems to develop high-efficiency solar cell and panel technology for satellites. Under the deal, Hanwha Systems will invest 30 billion won over 2.5 years from 2026 to 2028 to develop tandem solar cells for satellites, while Qcells will lead core research and development.

China will introduce mandatory energy-efficiency standards across its solar industry from Jan. 1, 2027, covering polysilicon, wafers, crystalline silicon modules and grid-connected inverters. The rules will turn previously recommended benchmarks into binding requirements and are expected to affect production, procurement, imports and equipment selection for renewable projects. New national standards will tighten energy-use requirements for polysilicon processes and raise efficiency expectations in wafer manufacturing and finished products.