Radiša Zakić: SolarEdge is delivering safe, efficient and reliable PV systems

Radiša Zakić, one of the pioneers in the solar PV industry in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, says that for an installer, it is of utmost importance to cooperate with a technology provider that delivers safe, efficient, and reliable PV systems. All those criteria are met by SolarEdge, Radiša says in an interview for Balkan Green Energy News, emphasizing the importance of the support services in which SolarEdge has no competition.

With the energy transition speeding up worldwide, the solar industry continues to evolve, and more and more technology companies are entering the market to support investors, industry, and citizens in their efforts to produce clean and green energy.

When the solar fairs turn off their lights and marketing campaigns end, the installers and customers are the ones who give the final word on whether marketing messages translate into high-quality solar system solutions and products.

We contacted Radiša Zekić, a seasoned professional in the photovoltaic (PV) industry, who installed around 20 MW of solar power plants, to learn about his experience in the sector. Radiša has been partnering with SolarEdge for 3 years now, and we wanted to check if SolarEdge is delivering what is promising to its partners around the globe.

You are among the pioneers of solar power plant development in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Please tell us a bit about yourself and your professional journey in the field of solar energy.

I hold a BSc in electrical engineering from the University of Vienna, and I have been working in the energy sector for more than a decade with a focus on renewable energy, smart houses, smart buildings, and SCADA systems.

In parallel with the rising enthusiasm for solar energy Europe-wide, I decided to start my solar journey and established the company TKP Energy in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia in 2012. My team and I have been fully devoted all these years to providing citizens and companies with solar power solutions, making the energy transition happen in the Balkan countries.

The first power plant we delivered was a 10kW ground-mounted installation in Bijeljina, a small town in Bosnia close to the border with Serbia. For this installation, we used a Samil Power inverter. Although this producer closed its business, the system still functions efficiently.

Zekić: Cooperation with SolarEdge company represents a game-changer in my career

Since then, we have been designing and installing various solar applications: on-grid, off-grid, solar irrigation systems with Lorentz technology, and backup solutions with Studer. In total, we delivered around 20 MW of solar power plants.

In 2020, I started a cooperation with SolarEdge company, representing a game-changer in my career. Recognizing their leadership potential in the inverter sector due to cutting-edge tech and robust research and development, we embarked on our largest project – a rooftop solar power plant of 900kW for the meat industry Champicomp in the Serbian town of Kovin in South Banat.

Although 2022 was a challenging year considering the chip shortage, we successfully overcame it and are currently engaged in 3MWp projects across Bosnia and Serbia.

When it comes to designing PV systems for your clients, what are the critical factors you consider?

The most important aspect to consider is ensuring the safety of the business operations under the solar roof. Clients naturally desire the utmost safety, and SolarEdge provides that precisely. With their technology, safety is maximized, giving our clients peace of mind.

Could you elaborate on the advantages of collaborating with SolarEdge from an installer’s perspective?

For me, as a solar installer, working with SolarEdge offers many advantages, but for sure, the fundamental one is support, support, and more support. Simply put, there is no support quite like SolarEdge’s. It sets high support standards in the industry, and I have the trust to be always backed up when working with their products.

For potential investors, what are the standout benefits of choosing SolarEdge?

Investors will find SolarEdge to be an appealing choice due to their extensive warranty coverage, unparalleled safety features, cost-effective service, swift response times, readily available spare parts in the European Union with speedy delivery, comprehensive system monitoring, and more.

In your opinion, what sets SolarEdge apart in terms of competitive advantages?

The most significant competitive edge that SolarEdge boasts is an unwavering commitment to safety, backed by extensive warranties, top-tier support, and continuous research and development.

Could you tell, based on your experience with SolarEdge, how the company distinguishes itself from other players in the industry?

SolarEdge’s differentiating factor lies in its proximity to customers and installers. They consistently respond to calls and offer unparalleled support. Their R&D division operates round the clock, and in my view, SolarEdge envisions the future from a unique perspective compared to other companies. It’s not just about selling products; it’s about being there for the customers, who often aren’t well-versed in the technology they’ve invested in.

Regarding clients, which categories do you believe are the best fit for SolarEdge installations?

I wholeheartedly recommend SolarEdge for residential installations. Regarding commercial installations on rooftops up to 1 MWp, I have full confidence in SolarEdge’s capabilities. While I haven’t yet tackled utility-scale projects on land, I believe they can be successful, although it’s challenging to compete with the price pressure exerted by string inverter manufacturers in this arena.

Radisa Zakic’s insights shed light on the dynamic world of solar energy and the pivotal role played by SolarEdge in delivering safe, efficient, and reliable PV systems to clients across Bosnia and Serbia. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that SolarEdge’s commitment to innovation and support is making a profound impact, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future powered by the sun.