A German-educated engineer with more than three decades of professional experience in Japan, Mr. Rosenkranz introduced his company R&L's solar power installation business with the presentation title of “CLEAN ENERGY – SOLAR: German Engineering, Japanese Quality Management, Chinese OEM.”
R&L has established itself as a leader in EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) for solar energy systems, delivering comprehensive solutions from project design and procurement to construction and maintenance. During his presentation, Mr. Rosenkranz introduced several of R&L’s most innovative systems, each designed to address specific environmental and spatial conditions.
The company’s Mega Solar systems—available in both fixed and single-axis tracking configurations—optimize energy output by aligning with the sun’s movement regardless of weather conditions. The fixed systems ensure long-term stability, while the single-axis tracking systems dynamically adjust panel angles to capture sunlight throughout the day. This intelligent engineering enhances efficiency and makes better use of available land.
Another notable design, the Solar Carport, demonstrates how renewable energy can be integrated into everyday infrastructure. These dual-purpose structures offer sheltered parking for vehicles while simultaneously generating electricity and supporting electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. Mr. Rosenkranz explained that such projects not only reduce operational costs but also serve as visible commitments to environmental responsibility in urban and commercial areas.
He then introduced R&L’s distinctive Suichoku or vertical solar panels, part of the company’s Agri PV series. The Suichoku system features bifacial modules installed vertically, allowing sunlight to be absorbed from both sides. This design is particularly effective in agricultural settings such as rice fields, soba farms, and grasslands, where crops can grow beneath the panels. By generating electricity mainly in the morning and evening, these vertical systems can achieve five to fifteen percent higher output than traditional south-facing arrays. The same technology is also adaptable for installation along railways, highways, and airports, functioning as energy-generating noise barriers and offering dual benefits of land efficiency and environmental utility.
Mr. Rosenkranz also introduced Floating Solar (FPV) systems, which are installed on the surface of ponds, dams, and reservoirs. Floating solar panels benefit from the natural cooling effect of water, leading to higher energy generation while minimizing water evaporation and algae growth. These systems provide an ideal solution in regions where land resources are limited, further reinforcing R&L’s ability to adapt renewable energy technologies to diverse environments.
Concluding his technical presentation, Mr. Rosenkranz unveiled SkyH2O + RE, an innovative climate technology that merges solar energy with atmospheric water generation. By using surplus renewable energy to extract and purify water from the air, this system contributes to sustainable resource management, particularly in water-scarce regions. He noted that areas such as Kyushu have shown growing interest in this technology, utilizing the environmental conditions such as high humidity.
Q&A Session: Innovation, Efficiency, and the Future of Clean Energy
Q&A Session: Innovation, Efficiency, and the Future of Clean Energy
Following the keynote speech, a Q&A session was held to further explore the evolution of solar energy technologies. The discussion centered around key topics such as the latest trends in module efficiency, environmental responsibility, and the integration of solar power with water resource technologies.
Q. In response to a question about the power generation efficiency of solar panels, Mr. Rosenkranz explained,
“The latest solar panels can now generate about 1.5 times more electricity than previous generations, even with the same installation area.”
Q. Another participant asked about the adoption of thin-film solar cell technology, which is known for being lightweight and highly adaptable, allowing installation in complex terrains, rooftops, or even on carbon-based surfaces where conventional panels are difficult to install. Mr. Rosenkranz expressed his support for adopting such technologies but pointed out that in highly regulated countries like Japan, the introduction of new technologies often requires substantial resources and energy. He emphasized that the innovative and creative solar systems promoted by R&L present one possible solution to these challenges.
Environmental considerations were also discussed as a crucial issue. Mr. Rosenkranz shared that at the initial stage of their business, they had considered adopting Taiwan-made PV modules due to their lower cost, but stressed that,
“The amount of CO₂ reduction achieved is the most critical metric by which any new technology should be evaluated.”
Building on these initiatives, Mr. Rosenkranz expressed his vision for the future: Efficiency alone is no longer enough—true innovation means balancing technological performance with environmental responsibility.
“The currency of tomorrow is saving the CO₂! That's all matter for the major companies and all the governments."
Through this session, a new direction emerged—one that emphasizes both the advancement of solar energy technologies and their contribution to addressing global sustainability challenges.
Q. Lastly, a question was raised about a system that purifies seawater and converts it into freshwater. Mr. Rosenkranz explained that R&L is currently promoting this technology in the Kyushu region, but one participant suggested that deployment in more remote areas such as the Seto Inland Sea or southern Okinawa might be more effective. In response, he stated,
“At this point, Kyushu has simply shown the most interest, but we are open to discussions with other regions or communities that express similar enthusiasm.”
To date, R&L has installed over 970 megawatts of solar power systems across 21 prefectures in Japan, with a combined capacity of 1,800 megawatts achieved internationally in countries such as Australia, Taiwan, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia. With a foundation built on advanced engineering and environmental harmony, the company continues to lead the global transition toward practical and sustainable clean energy solutions.
(IRuniverse R.S.)
