Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the two organisations will look at silicon feedstock related issues, the development of standards for solar grade silicon and evaluation methods, and research on crystallization technologies and commercial implementation.

Xiaofeng Peng, Chairman and CEO of LDK Solar, says: "With common R&D goals and having previously collaborated informally with the NREL, we are pleased formalise our cooperation. We are proud of the continued work by our Technology Center which is dedicated to product and technology development while sustaining competitive advantages for LDK Solar."

John Benner, Manager of PV industry partnership at NCPV of NREL, adds: "We look forward to working closely with LDK to accelerate research to bring more alternative energy solutions to the market."