Hanwha Qcells and Hanwha Systems will jointly develop tandem solar cells for satellites, with a test launch planned in 2028 and deployment on a 64-satellite SAR fleet beginning in 2029.
Hanwha Qcells and Hanwha Systems have agreed to jointly develop high-efficiency solar cells to power satellites, an early move into the emerging market for space power.
Hanwha Qcells, the solar-panel maker owned by Hanwha Solutions, and Hanwha Systems, the group’s defense and space affiliate, said Wednesday they had signed a deal to develop high-efficiency solar cells and panels for satellites. Hanwha Systems will invest 30 billion won ($20 million) in the research in stages from 2026 through 2028.
The work centers on tandem solar cells, which stack two light-absorbing layers to draw more power from sunlight than the silicon cells in use today. Tandem cells are also lighter and hold up better against radiation. That makes them a leading next-generation material for powering satellites and the space-based AI data centers that companies envision.
As the space industry shifts toward large constellations of satellites in low orbit and toward AI and data services, steady power has become increasingly important for keeping those missions running.
Hanwha will start by developing tandem cells for very low Earth orbit (VLEO) satellites. That environment is especially demanding: It calls for cells that are efficient, light and durable against both radiation and atomic oxygen at once.
The companies plan to launch a test satellite in 2028 to prove the technology in orbit. From 2029, they will fit the cells to a planned Hanwha Systems fleet of 64 synthetic aperture radar satellites. These ultra-high-resolution imaging craft will orbit at very low altitude and be able to capture objects on the ground as small as 15 centimeters (6 inches). Hanwha aims to extend the technology later to low and medium Earth orbits and build a broader position within the global space-power market.
For Hanwha Qcells, the partnership is a chance to carry a business built on the ground into orbit.
“This collaboration is an important starting point for extending the high-efficiency solar cell technology we have built up into the space industry,” said Park Seung-deok, chief executive of Hanwha Qcells.
“We will improve the performance and reliability of satellite power systems and, over the long term, create new growth opportunities in the global space-power market by bringing together the space and renewable-energy industries.”
BY KO SUK-HYUN [cho.yongjun1@joongang.co.kr]
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