CEO Insights Magazine

Solar energy, a linchpin of sustainable practices, hinges on the leadership of industry visionaries. As one sage in the field remarked, ‘Solar power isn't just an alternative; it is an inevitable necessity’, industry leaders bear the responsibility of steering us toward a future powered by clean energy, wherein harnessing the sun's potential becomes paramount in our quest for a sustainable and resilient planet.

One such prominent figure in the industry is Uwe Rosenkranz, the Founder and CEO of R&L, whose extensive work in Asia and Europe has established him as a globally recognized engineer. Uwe Rosenkranz is a German-educated engineer with over three decades of experience as a Service Manager in Japan and nearly two decades in the Photovoltaic (PV) industry. In an era where renewable energy is increasingly crucial, Rosenkranz's cutting-edge knowledge and leadership have established him as an industry expert. He serves as an exemplary advocate for solar energy, contributing significantly to the advancement and prominence of sustainable energy solutions worldwide.

In an exclusive conversation with CEO Insights Asia, Uwe Rosenkranz delves into his professional traits and provides insights into the operational dynamics of R&L.

Could you give a brief account of your professional background and experiences?

With a longstanding presence in Japan, I founded R&L in 2009 - a company committed to innovative sustainable energy solutions. Specializing in clean and renewable energy, we actively contribute to innovative solutions, with a strategic emphasis on dual land usage and leveraging existing infrastructure. R&L stands as a leader in deploying large-scale renewable energy initiatives, excelling in feasibility studies, engineering design, procurement, construction, and operation. We boast a commendable track record of optimizing costs and timelines while ensuring safety and quality. Our dedicated team brings technical expertise, innovative technologies, and a commitment to safety, performance, and reliability, driving positive changes in energy solutions across the Asia-Pacific region.

You possess over thirty years of experience. How has been your path to success and what is your success mantra?

With over thirty-eight years of experience, my path to success intertwines passion and patience. I view entrepreneurship as opening doors, where conducting business is a testament to both passion and patience. This combination fuels my dedication, treating the job as more than work - it's a hobby and a genuine passion. Choosing to establish my company in Japan, not Germany or Africa, has proven successful. The key lies in explaining and promising opportunities to customers, maintaining a delicate balance between passion and patience, and creating a resilient foundation for success.

Define R&L as an organization and its position in the market. What is the unique proposition that your organization offers to clients?

R&L Solar Solutions, based in Tokyo, Japan, is a premier provider of comprehensive EPC and O&M services for solar projects on both utility and commercial scales. We differentiate ourselves as a customer-centric solution provider, engaging closely to understand energy needs and offering tailored solutions. Operating as a one-stop-shop, we handle the entire project lifecycle - from development and permissions to construction and maintenance. R&L stands out as a dynamic force, delivering end to-end solutions that meet and exceed the diverse requirements of our valued clients.

Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines/methodologies you follow as a leader?

My leadership approach revolves around customer centricity and pragmatic solutions. When engaging with clients, active listening is fundamental - we prioritize understanding their needs over promoting our offerings. The key is crafting solutions that are not only effective but also economically feasible, striving for self-sufficiency without reliance on subsidies.

This approach involves aligning our expertise with client requirements to create a mutually beneficial partnership. In essence, I prioritize customer needs, affordability, and self-sufficiency, delivering value that aligns with the genuine requirements of our customers while maintaining a sustainable and competitive business model.

What future destination are you heading towards?

Our trajectory is towards a future centered on reliable, sustainable, and clean energy. As aforementioned, our focus involves leveraging existing infrastructure, such as incorporating rooftop solar panels on buildings in Tokyo and implementing solar carports in large parking areas. This approach extends beyond energy generation, encompassing innovations like charging car batteries and integrating rainwater collection systems into sanitation cycles. The overarching goal is to forge a future where our endeavors not only meet the energy needs of today but also contribute to holistic resource management.

In the light of your strong industry experience, what advice would you give to the budding industry leaders?

Drawing from substantial industry experience, my advice to emerging leaders is to prioritize supportive policies that facilitate easy and affordable installations. Emphasize the concept of dual land use and promoting self-consumption of generated energy. In this regard, including Agri PV, i.e., a gamechanger of modern agriculture/fishery industry, while using existing infrastructure, e.g. Railways (Shinkansen, JR) or Highways, can help produce clean energy for the self-consumption and drive the trains. These approaches are particularly valuable for many promoting energy efficiency, creating a symbiotic solution. Furthermore, by aligning policies with practicality and sustainability, budding leaders can navigate challenges more effectively and contribute to the growth of the industry.

Uwe Rosenkranz, Founder & CEO, R&L

Uwe Rosenkranz, Founder & CEO of R&L, is a globally recognized engineer with over three decades in Japan as a Service Manager and nearly two decades in the Photovoltaic industry. His leadership and cutting-edge knowledge position him as an exemplary advocate for solar energy worldwide.

Quick Facts:

•Hobbies: Reading Books, Sports and Swimming
•Favorite Cuisine: Japanese
•Awards & Recognition: APAC Entrepreneur of the Year 2019 and Top 10 Solar Energy Solution Provider 2022.