Spotlight on Serbest Amedie - Regional Director for MENA, AE Solar
Serbest Amedie
Regional Director for MENA - AE Solar
About Serbest
Serbest Amedie, Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa at AESOLAR in Germany. Since 2012 I have been working in the photovoltaic industry, with expertise in project management, business development and sales.
Please describe your role at AESOLAR as well as your industry expertise.
Since September 2024, I have been managing PV module demand in the MENA region and Africa at AESOLAR while leading a sales team. I focus on supporting regional partners and ensuring smooth project execution. I also speak German, English, Kurdish, and Arabic, which helps me communicate effectively across diverse markets.
What motivated AESOLAR to invest in MENA's solar industry?
We see huge potential in MENA and already work with partners in the region. However, countries here vary in their approach to renewables, with financing being a major challenge. Some, like Jordan, struggle with investment due to credit rating issues, while oil-rich nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE have better access to funds. The latter two also have programs like the Saudi Arabia’s National Renewable Energy Program and UAE’s Energy Strategy 2050 in place to expand renewables in their energy mix. The demand for reliable solar solutions is growing rapidly. But the region’s harsh climate—extreme heat, strong winds, and heavy dust—makes PV module performance a challenge. AESOLAR offers solutions designed to withstand these challenges, ensuring long-term efficiency and reliability.
Can you tell us about what sets you apart from other competitors?
AESOLAR stands out with German-engineered, high-quality PV modules and over 20 years of solar expertise. Committed to innovation, we provide tailored solutions with extended lifespans and industry-leading warranties of up to 30 years, ensuring long-term reliability.
Beyond standard modules, AESOLAR offers a range of specialized solutions suitable for the regions challenging climate:
HORIZON: climate-resistant carport module generates green energy while providing shaded parking, utilizing unused spaces efficiently.
COMET: high-performance HJT module (up to 720 Wp), with superior efficiency and durability in harsh climates. For utility applications.
MIRAGE – BIPV module that integrates seamlessly into building structures. Dual layers of tempered glass ensure safety and durability against heat.
TERRA (Agri-PV) - unique design PV modules - integrating solar with agriculture.
What's a recent milestone AESOLAR has achieved that you would like to share with us?
Last year we celebrated many successes and milestones. In terms of product development, our Meteor bifacial glass-glass modules ranked #1 in PV Magazine’s outdoor efficiency tests.
WE also launched cutting-edge solutions tailored for diverse energy needs. The TOPCon Horizon powers carports with durable energy. We also have 2 modules (Terra family) specifically designed for AgriPV applications and vertical applications.
For example, we’ve built a solar-powered library for a tuition-free school in Thailand’s Khlong Toei slum.
We contributed to Expedição Solar, a documentary reaching 25 million viewers – the aim was to educate everyday people on the importance of solar energy. And we are proud to bring the message of energy transition to so many people across the globe.
We also retained BloombergNEF Tier 1 status for the 15th time, proving our commitment to reliability and bankability.
But for us, it’s not just business. We actively support underdeveloped communities by donating and installing solar systems in areas with little or no electricity access.
What are your expectations for the MENA region in terms of growth and new opportunities for AESOLAR?
AESOLAR operates extensively across several MENA countries, including Iran, Morocco, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.
The countries across the MENA region traditionally rely on oil and gas – however, there is increasing pressure to adopt renewables due to fossil fuel price volatility. Policy reforms, such as subsidies and setting ambitious renewables targets, are crucial for advancing the region’s energy transition. We are very positive that the energy transition will be successful on most of the MENA markets, and this is what we hear from our partners as well.
The region’s extreme desert climate presents unique challenges for solar energy generation. So AESOLAR focuses on addressing the longevity, quality and special features of its PV modules – to adapt to high temperatures and dust storms.
Presently, we are conducting a pioneering research project in Saudi Arabia focused on AgriPV. This unique initiative addresses the challenging climate conditions in the region, notorious for extreme temperatures and fluctuations. The research aims to deploy PV modules with trackers to enhance agricultural productivity by providing shade and optimizing crop growth.
Additionally, we offer HJT PV modules, which proved to have higher resistance to high temperatures.
About AE Solar
AESOLAR, founded in 2003 and headquartered in Germany, is a global leader in premium photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturing. With state-of-the-art production facilities in China and Turkey, the company has an annual capacity of 2GW. Its high-quality solar products are trusted and distributed in over 100 countries.
Beyond manufacturing solar panels, AESOLAR is dedicated to a brighter, cleaner future through innovative energy solutions that offer great value, lower electricity costs, and cut carbon emissions. With more than 3,200 successful PV installations across diverse applications, we are driving the global shift to sustainable energy.