[THE INVESTOR] Hanwha Group has launched a new research complex in Seosan, South Chungcheong Province, to nurture local small and medium-sized firms in the field of solar energy.

The company, in partnership with the South Chungcheong Creative Economy Innovation Center, jointly opened the Seosan Solar Energy-Specialized Venture Complex on July 22.

With an area of 16,529 square-meter, the new center will attract SMEs in the field of solar energy to foster their R&D activities and commercialize its related technologies, while offering consultations for their global expansion. 

The group has poured a total of 20 billion won (US$17.59 million) to build the complex. It expects to see around 22 firms making their home under the roof by end of this year.

The latest project is part of the conglomerate’s effort to create a new solar energy business hub in the South Chungcheong Province. When Hanwha Group opened the Chungcheong Creative Economy Innovation Center -- a government-driven regional offices to nurture start-ups across industries with major conglomerates -- last May, the company pledged to create the cluster, integrating solar production plants and research organizations in the area.


By Ahn Sung-mi (sahn@heraldcorp.com)