Dutch utility Nuon is to take over chemicals giant Akzo Nobel’s solar cell technology arm for an undisclosed sum.

The Akzo Nobel solar cell R&D venture, Helianthos, is developing a solar cell foil containing ultra-thin active pv layers. Because of its light weight the foil can be applied on large surfaces, such as roofs, without the need for structural improvements and it may also be used on curved surfaces.

The 26 Helianthos team members plan to further develop the technology over the next three years to prepare it for mass production and marketing.

Akzo Nobel and Nuon expect to complete the transaction this month. No financial details of the takeover are being released.