Canadian Solar Partners with Powermode in South Africa

Johannesburg-based distributor appointed authorised reseller of tier-one solar company’s photovoltaic modules

Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: CSIQ), one of the world’s largest solar companies, has announced the appointment of Powermode as an authorised reseller for the South African market. Powermode will focus on providing architects, consulting engineers, facilities managers, and developers with Canadian Solar’s high performance photovoltaic modules.

Designed to generate high energy output, Canadian Solar’s photovoltaic (PV) modules are used in a variety of climate zones and in a wide range of configurations, from ground-mounted to residential and commercial rooftop systems, from grid connected to off-grid, and from solar home systems to utility scale PV systems. The products deliver some of the highest PV USA (PTC) ratings – a universally recognised indicator of a solar system’s performance and power output.

“It’s an exciting time for the solar energy market in South Africa and our partnership with Powermode allows us to service the growing demand for photovoltaic modules in the country,” said Jos van der Hyden, Canadian Solar Vice President and General Manager for Africa and Middle East. “Our partner approach enables us to bundle our products with local expertise, while developing South Africa’s solar energy skills.”

Through the appointment, Powermode has direct access to sales and marketing support, Canadian Solar’s customer service team and intensive trainings across the company’s product line.

“With more than 13 years’ experience in the local power industry, Powermode is looking forward to packaging Canadian Solar’s outstanding products with our local know-how and strong technical consulting capabilities,” said Jack Ward, managing director of Powermode.

Powermode will distribute Canadian Solar’s full portfolio in South Africa focusing on the module manufacturer’s best seller CS6P-P (235-255W), a high performance module with 60 solar cells for on-grid solar applications, and on the MaxPower CS6X-P (280-300W) module with 72 solar cells, designed for utility, commercial, and rural area applications. Due to its larger size, increased power, and performance, MaxPower reduces costs per watt by maximising tracker and racking space.

Powermode will also focus on the Andes Solar Home System, an economical off-grid solar power solution providing clean electricity to homes and communities without access to a stable grid. It is also designed for emergency power supply during power outages. The product is light in weight, cost-effective and easy to set up.  And when compared to diesel generators, it runs quietly, produces zero-emissions and requires little maintenance.