Greentech Lead Asia: Global Solar Energy, a manufacturer
of flexible solar technology, has expanded its business into Japan’s growing
solar market by establishing local partnerships and launching a new design of
its PowerFLEX BIPV system, which exclusively designed for use on rooftops in
Japan.
Global Solar Energy has partnered with CBC Co., Eco
Holdings and OG Corporation to allow Japanese businesses to adopt the most
powerful flexible solar roofing module on the market and take advantage of the
country’s new feed-in tariff (FIT).
The Japanese government’s progressive new FIT program
went into effect on July 1st, requiring utilities to pay 42 yen per
kilowatt-hour (about $0.52 per kilowatt-hour) for 20 years from solar plants
generating 10 kW of energy or more. It is estimated that the new FIT program
could foster a solar market of $9.6 billion and 3.2 gigawatts (GW) of capacity.
“With its recent FIT program and proven dedication
to integrating more renewable energy into its utilities’ portfolio mix, Japan
will prove to be one of the most important markets for solar in the coming
years. With our highly-valued partners, Global Solar is well positioned to take
advantage of the market growth and bring our powerful and cost-effective
PowerFLEX BIPV solar solution to more rooftops around Japan,” said
Jean-Noel Poirier, chief sales officer, Global Solar Energy. Â
Global Solar claims that its PowerFLEX BIPV module has
12.6 percent aperture efficiency and it will deliver the highest efficiency in
the flexible module sector. Its large format and a high power density (300 W)
bring down installation and balance of system (BOS) costs.
The PowerFLEX BIPV perfect fits for typical Japanese
building roofs, the module allows more power generation per square foot than
any other BIPV solution.
Global Solar’s system maintains the integrity and
aesthetics of a building structure by being applied directly to a roofing surface
and requiring no mounting hardware or roof penetrations.
Global Solar Energy to sell its portable products business
Global Solar Energy recently announced its plans to sell
its portable products business. The proposed sale will enable Global Solar to
focus on and grow other key business units serving the building integrated
photovoltaic (BIPV) market.
 editor@greentechlead.com