Solarbuzz will operate in conjunction with NPD Group’s DisplaySearch, which specialises in flat panel display and electronics market research and consulting.

The acquisition extends NPD Group’s global market and supply chain research into the “burgeoning solar energy sector”.

Solarbuzz will keep its brand name. DisplaySearch’s existing solar energy research reports and services will be folded into Solarbuzz’s product portfolio.

“We anticipate the solar energy market will expand rapidly as we continue to witness increased government and industry efforts focused on renewable energy,” says Tod Johnson, Chairman and CEO of The NPD Group.

“As the flat panel display (FPD) supply chain matures and extends its manufacturing expertise into the solar energy sector, we see an opportunity to quickly expand our business in this segment by acquiring Solarbuzz, an established brand in the solar industry since 2001. The company will complement DisplaySearch’s supply chain expertise in the FPD segment.”