Over the past decade, I've had the privilege to work with some of the most dynamic companies in the global solar energy industry. But few places have impressed me as much as Wuxi—a city where innovation, industrial strength, and clean energy ambition come together with rare intensity.
Gerard Scheper (Left) shakes hands with Liu Yang, CEO of China Renewable Energy Council (Wuxi). [Photo provided to en.wuxi.gov.cn]
As the founder of European Solar, I recently formalized a strategic partnership with China Renewable Energy Corporation (CREC), based in Wuxi. Together, we established the Netherlands Renewable Energy Liaison Point, a dedicated bridge between the Dutch and Chinese renewable energy sectors. This new platform will serve as a two-way channel for knowledge, innovation, and collaboration.
Wuxi is uniquely suited for this role.
The city boasts one of the most complete photovoltaic (PV) supply chains in the world—from silicon wafers and cell production to inverters, battery storage and smart grid technologies. Wuxi is home to many leading solar manufacturers and research institutes, and its thriving clean energy cluster has become a model for China's national green development strategy.
A ceremony is held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of CREC on May 15, 2025. [Photo provided to en.wuxi.gov.cn]
More than just a manufacturing base, Wuxi is investing heavily in the future. Its local government has set out a clear roadmap to become a global hub for new energy technologies, encouraging high-value projects and international partnerships. When walking through the industrial parks or meeting with local entrepreneurs, it's clear that this city is not only producing solar equipment—it's shaping the global solar narrative.
At European Solar, we provide high-end consultancy services for energy companies across Europe and the Middle East. Our strength lies in connecting stakeholders—manufacturers, developers, EPCs, and governments—and helping them navigate complex solar and storage projects. From tender management and product sourcing to technical support and strategic matchmaking, we operate across the full commercial value chain.
Our collaboration with CREC and Wuxi marks a significant moment. It allows us to bring Wuxi's technological strengths to European markets, and at the same time help European developers engage directly with vetted Chinese partners who understand the standards and expectations overseas.
A plaque of the Netherlands Renewable Energy Liaison Point at CREC headquarters in Wuxi. [Photo provided to en.wuxi.gov.cn]
For me, this partnership is more than business—it's about creating smart and responsible connections in a fast-changing world. With price volatility, regulatory shifts, and rising sustainability demands, the future of solar energy depends on trust, transparency, and collaboration across borders.
Wuxi's scale, ambition, and openness to global cooperation make it the ideal partner. I look forward to many successful projects together—turning shared ideas into real-world impact.
The author is the founder of European Solar, a Netherland-based high-end business consultancy with the solar industry.
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