The World Smart Energy Week 2013 was held in Tokyo, Japan from February 27 to March 1. Firms participated in the exhibition showcased new technologies and equipment for power generation, storage, and smart control, mainly for the rooftop solar PV systems.
Rooftop systems have been dominating the solar market in Japan. Due to limited area, many firms that hope to enter the solar market in Japan have been developing small-area solar modules with less than 30 solar cells.
Some firms aim to improve potential induced degradation (PID) and lower power loss. Taiwan-based solar cell maker Gintech showcased its 6-inch PID-free high-efficiency multi-crystalline solar cells in the PV Expo 2013 while BenQ Solar, another Taiwan-based solar firm, showcased PID-free high-efficiency solar modules for the residential rooftop market.
Furthermore, Japan consumers often prefer domestic products, but due to high labor costs, the total installation cost of solar PV systems in Japan remains uncompetitive. Therefore, many firms showcased automated equipment to help solar firms reduce labor cost and installation time.
Some firms showcased light-weight frames for rooftop solar PV systems that can withstand snow and areas with high sodium content. The exhibition also included monitoring products that allow users to control the amount of electricity using wireless devices and Bluetooth.
Japan's government fully supports using renewable energy sources to replace nuclear power and plans to separate the monopolized electricity market to two markets: power generation and electricity allocation. This can create more competition and attract more investors. Due to strong policy support, the Japan solar market saw fourth-quarter installations reach the gigawatt level. The solar industry has been optimistic about the Japan solar market and expects the market to show significant growth.
