ReneSola, Wuhan Rixin launch BIPV projects in China

China-based solar developers ReneSola and Wuhan Rixin Energy this week announced plans for new projects incorporating building integrated photovoltaics.

Wafer manufacturer ReneSola (NYSE: SOL) said it received approval to build the first BIPV project in Zhejiang Province. The 5 megawatt project is expected to allow ReneSola to replace roofing materials on about 80,400 square meters of several government buildings. The project, in Jiashan County, Zhejiang province, is subject to final approval by the Ministries of Finance and Housing.

The project is estimated at RMB160 million ($23.4 million), partially funded through the new subsidy for solar in China of RMB 15 per watt (see New solar subsidies in China set to reduce installed cost by half). 

ReneSola is also seeking subsidies from the local government and a loan from a local bank. Zhejiang plans to increase its installed solar capacity to 50 MW by 2012.

Meanwhile, Hubei, China-based Wuhan Rixin Energy signed a contract with the Huangshi Economic & Technological Development Area in Hubei to invest RMB 1 billion ($145 million) to build a 30 MW production facility for BIPV.

This project is expected to increase production capacity in the Huangshi Economic & Technological Development Area to a value of RMB 10 billion, the most valuable single area for solar production in China.