Global Solar Energy Inc. says it has expanded into Japan's growing solar market by establishing local partnerships and releasing a new design of its PowerFLEX building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system.
Global Solar says its PowerFLEX BIPV module has been adapted specifically for use on rooftops in Japan and can be applied directly to a roofing surface, without the need for mounting hardware or roof penetrations. According to the company, the PowerFLEX BIPV module has a 12.6% aperture efficiency and a power density of 300 W.
In addition, by partnering with CBC Co. Ltd, Eco Holdings and OG Corp., Global Solar says it is making it easy for Japanese businesses to take advantage of the country's new feed-in tariff (FIT).
On July 1, the Japanese government's new FIT program went into effect. The program requires utilities to pay 42 yen/kWh ($0.52/kWh) for 20 years for electricity produced by solar plants with capacities of at least 10 kW.
