Heliup Launches on 100 MW lightweight solar panel factory in France

A new solar module manufacturing plant in France, specializing in lightweight solar panels for flat rooftops, has officially commenced full-scale operations, according to the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA).

French startup Heliup established the 100 MW production site in Le Cheylas, located in southeastern France, as part of its Solar Heliup Energy for Flat Roof Top initiative.

The project utilizes cutting-edge ultra-thin glass technology in its Stykon photovoltaic panels, specifically engineered for large-scale commercial, industrial, and logistics buildings that have limited load-bearing capacity.

According to a statement from CINEA, the panels are adhered directly onto waterproof membranes, reducing system weight by 60% without compromising performance or reliability.

To finance the construction of the facility, Heliup secured €10 million (approximately $11.3 million) in October 2023. This funding was further supplemented by a €3.22 million grant from the European Commission's Innovation Fund. With the factory now operational, the next phase of the initiative will focus on commercial expansion to fully utilize its 100 MW annual production capability.

Looking ahead, Heliup plans to enter a second phase beyond the current Innovation Fund-backed project, aiming to scale up its industrial production units by a factor of five to ten starting from 2026.

“The project addresses unmet needs in the built environment, particularly for buildings previously considered unsuitable for solar installations due to structural constraints,” said Heliup CEO Yannick Veschetti.

“The Innovation Fund’s support has been instrumental in scaling up this technology, accelerating our ability to make a meaningful contribution to

 Europe’s decarbonization targets.”