First Solar , EDF to build largest solar panels plant in France

Solar maker First Solar Inc. and EDF Energies Nouvelles announced they will build the largest solar panel manufacturing plant in France, representing an expected investment of $128 million.

Valero seeking ownership of New Zealand Refining

Valero Energy Corp. is taking into consideration acquiring full ownership or a stake of New Zealand Refining Co. to reduce its reliance on the U.S. market , Bloomberg reported. The firm is the largest refiner in the U.S.

Natural gas stockpiles increase

U.S. stockpiles of natural gas rose 66 billion cubic feet to 2.952 trillion cubic feet on the week ended July 17, the Department of Energy reported today. Natural gas futures dropped more than 6 percent after the report, the biggest decline in seven weeks.