“Collaboration is the key to the energy transition”

A conversation between Baoshen Zhong and Rafael Stadelmann

Strong partnerships form a cornerstone of LONGi’s European strategy, with the cooperation with Swiss distributor Solarmarkt GmbH standing out as a prime example.

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In a joint interview, Baoshen Zhong, Chairman of the Board and CEO of LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd., and Rafael Stadelmann, CEO of Solarmarkt GmbH, discuss the beginning of their partnership, its success factors, and the future of solar energy.

How did the collaboration between LONGi and Solarmarkt come about?

Rafael Stadelmann: The collaboration started at a very early stage – back when LONGi still operated under the name Lerri Solar and was primarily known as a leading manufacturer of cells and wafers. We began the partnership in 2016. It was clear to us that, in the medium term, LONGi would become a vertically integrated manufacturer with a strong R&D department and would take a leading position in module production. This assessment has proven correct over the years – both LONGi’s strategic direction and our partnership have paid off. Today, LONGi modules with their high efficiency and quality are firmly established in the Swiss PV market. Looking back, I would call our cooperation a true “success story.”
Baoshen Zhong: Our long-standing partnership with Solarmarkt is an impressive example of the strength of collaboration and shared values. Over the years, Solarmarkt has been an indispensable partner in introducing LONGi’s advanced technology to the European market.

What qualities do you value in each other?

Baoshen Zhong: Together we have not only achieved remarkable milestones, but also built a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and a shared pursuit of excellence. This partnership has enabled us to better understand the specific needs of the European market and align our solutions with the highest quality and performance standards.

Rafael Stadelmann: For a successful partnership, mutual trust is crucial – as is the certainty that one can rely on suppliers even in challenging times. We especially appreciate the open and transparent communication with LONGi. Moreover, LONGi has always recognized and addressed the specific needs of the “small” Swiss market. That is by no means a given – and we truly value having such a dedicated and reliable partner at our side.

How important are partnerships like this for the success of the energy transition?

Baoshen Zhong: Strategic partnerships, such as that between LONGi and Solarmarkt, are essential for accelerating the global energy transition. No single company can drive systemic change on its own – collaboration is the key to scaling renewable energy efficiently. Our partnership with Solarmarkt combines LONGi’s high-efficiency solar technology with Solarmarkt’s strong market expertise and distribution network in Europe. At LONGi, we see such alliances as a cornerstone of a sustainable energy future.

Rafael Stadelmann: Partnerships like the one with LONGi are central to the success of the energy transition. The Swiss PV market is constantly evolving – regulations and support mechanisms are changing, which can create gaps in product portfolios. In such an environment, it is essential to have reliable partners who respond flexibly to new requirements and develop workable solutions together.

What sets LONGi apart from other manufacturers?

Baoshen Zhong: At LONGi, we are fully committed to the global energy transition. We deliver efficient and reliable solar technology that helps businesses and communities harness the power of the sun.

Rafael Stadelmann: Ultimately, both our companies are working toward the same goal: advancing the energy transition. We want to use products whose efficiency and quality remain consistent over the lifetime of a PV system, while also being cost-competitive with other energy sources – in Switzerland and internationally. LONGi manages to strike that balance: combining state-of-the-art cell technologies with a strong commitment to quality, while keeping production at market-ready prices.

What technological developments will LONGi focus on in the coming years?

Baoshen Zhong: Back contact (BC) technology is clearly at the center – it is a platform technology with unparalleled versatility. It can be combined with TOPCon, HJT, and other modern cell architectures to raise module efficiency to a new level. With its superior performance and reliability, BC technology represents the future of solar. Through targeted R&D and accelerated production expansion, we are making it the new industry standard.

Where do you see LONGi in five years – especially in the European market?

Baoshen Zhong: Looking ahead, the European PV market offers limitless opportunities for growth and innovation. Rising demand for clean energy, supported by political frameworks and growing climate awareness, marks a pivotal moment for our industry. LONGi remains determined to drive this change – with technological expertise and global reach to deliver sustainable energy solutions that make a real difference.

What market impact do you expect from the new 500 W modules?

Baoshen Zhong: LONGi’s 500 W modules create real added value for residential rooftops – they maximize limited space with higher power output, improving overall system economics. In Munich, for example, each BC module generates 55 kWh more annually than a TOPCon module – equivalent to an added value of around €23 per year. We will soon launch our high-efficiency EcoLife Series specifically for homeowners, because we believe: every square meter counts. More power per module plus higher efficiency equals optimal yields from the roof. That’s the difference our 500 W modules deliver.

How does Solarmarkt support its customers in adopting these innovations?

Rafael Stadelmann: A 500 W module in this size class is another milestone in PV. When I started at Solarmarkt in 2010, module power was still around 200 Wp. Our own digital value chain – covering everything from planning to system installation – will help our customers integrate LONGi’s new modules into their projects early on. As a logistics provider and long-term partner of LONGi, it is in our joint interest to establish this new module as another success story in the Swiss market.

How do you see the future of the European PV market?

Rafael Stadelmann: PV has become a central part of the energy mix in many European countries – not only in Switzerland. The next step is to integrate the technology more effectively into sector coupling. The new Swiss energy law sets an important course, bringing fresh changes to the market – but such changes are necessary to keep advancing PV. Especially in storage technologies, viable and scalable business models are needed – here, the combination with PV has enormous potential. I would like to see faster and more decisive action from policymakers. It is essential to fully exploit the local potential of PV and maximize it. After all, there is still no cheaper form of energy generation.

What message would you like to share with your customers and partners?

Baoshen Zhong: I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Solarmarkt and our European partners for their continuous support and collaboration over the years. Together we have not only achieved important milestones, but also laid a solid foundation for a sustainable energy future. Looking ahead, I am convinced that our shared vision and commitment to innovation will continue to drive the growth of solar in Europe and beyond. Let us seize the great opportunities ahead, face challenges with resilience, and work together for a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous world for generations to come. The future is bright – and together we will light the way.

Rafael Stadelmann: I too would like to express my gratitude for the cooperation over the past years. It is impressive to see how our two companies have developed during this time. Together we have made a significant contribution to the energy transition in Switzerland – and we look with confidence to our continued partnership. It is rewarding to walk this path together and to overcome obstacles side by side. In the end, we all benefit. Sustainable energy production is vital – not only for us today, but especially for future generations. It gives me great joy to be part of this movement.

LONGi is available in the Solarmarkt shop.

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