UK solar panel distributor Bimble Solar has signed a module distribution agreement with TCL SunPower Global to distribute up to 10MW of the latter’s solar panels in the UK.
The agreement covers TCL’s T-Class and S-Class tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) modules, which have an energy efficiency of 23.1% and 22.7% respectively, and the n-type back contact (BC) E-Class modules, which have an efficiency of 23.5%. All three module series are designed for use in the distributed sector – T-Class for commercial applications, S-Class and E-Class for the residential sector – and TCL managing director Steven Zhang said the partnership would aim to leverage Bumble’s experience with this scale of operations.
“Bimble Solar’s credibility and consistent track record make them a strong distribution partner, and their reach within the small and medium installer community directly supports our growth strategy,” said Zhang. “We look forward to enabling broader access to high-quality TCL Solar modules for projects across the country.”
TCL said the Bimble Solar deal “complements” its existing distribution network in Britain, which has been expanded over the past year through deals with distributors such as Ireland-based Failte Solar. TCL signed a similar module distribution agreement with the company last yearmaking Failte the exclusive distributor of TCL modules in Ireland, and one of many TCL distributors in the UK.
Rexel will distribute BYD solar and storage products in Ireland
In other distribution news, electricity wholesaler Rexel Ireland has signed a deal to become a distribution partner of Chinese manufacturer BYD.
Under the terms of the agreement, BYD’s solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS) products under the ‘HVE’ range can be purchased through Rexel. The range includes the Battery-Box HVE, a BESS system for the home, available in module sizes of 4.2 kWh and 6.4 kWh.
“BYD is committed to the Irish market, as we have already seen in the automotive industry, and they are equally committed to expanding their network of BYD battery installers across the country,” said Damien Phillips, country manager for Rexel Energy Solutions.
The BYD products are also eligible for up to €1,800 (£15,71.57) in grant funding through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Solar PV Scheme, which operates under the Microgeneration Support Scheme, offering funding to homeowners keen to install solar and storage facilities on their properties. The scheme awards €700 for every kilowatt of installed capacity, up to 2 kWp, for a total subsidy amount of €1,800.
This scheme has contributed to a record year for residential solar installations in Ireland SEAI figures show a 16% year-on-year increase in the number of homes installing solar panels by 2025which translates to a record 340,888 homes that added solar systems last year.
