Centrosolar will manufacture Zep Compatible modules in its own production plant in Wismar, Germany. Additionally, the companies have agreed to work in close cooperation for the development and marketing of Zep products in Europe. Thus, Centrosolar, the only German solar manufacturer of Zep products, has become one of Zep Solars leading European partners.
Centrosolars Zep Compatible modules incorporate a grooved frame, allowing the modules to easily mate with Zep grounding hardware. This module-integrated design provides a drastic reduction of system components and tools as well as the elimination of bulky rails.
Separate grounding hardware is eliminated as well, because the Zep system simultaneously accomplishes grounding and structural connections. In addition to saving a considerable amount of time on the roof, installers benefit from cost and logistical advantages as well as a safer and more robust grounding solution. The system is also impressive because of its aesthetically pleasing design.
As part of the agreement, the development teams of both companies have adapted Zep Solars standard frame profile specifically for Centrosolar to make the best use of materials and to suit the requirements of European roof applications. As one of Zep Solars leading European partners, Centrosolar will launch the Zep Compatible modules in Germany and other European countries.
The Zep concept represents an important step in the evolution of the PV mounting system. It removes the separation between module frames and framework, which has existed since the beginning of the solar energy era, and therefore allows significant savings to be made at a time when aluminium is becoming more and more expensive, explains Dr Johannes Kneip, a board member of Centrosolar AG.
Partnering with an industry leader like Centrosolar is a major achievement for Zep Solar, as we expand into the European market, said Mike Miskovsky, President of Zep Solar. Enabling a streamlined installation platform, this collaboration moves the industry closer toward establishing technology standards for PV installations. The Zep Groove is poised to become the USB port for solar.
In June, Centrosolar will unveil the Zep system at the Intersolar Europe trade fair in Munich, Germany. The system will first be launched in the U.S. market in the third quarter of 2011. Distribution in Europe is scheduled to begin thereafter. Centrosolar has already applied for the system to be certified according to UL and IEC-standards.
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