With 12,500 properties worldwide, measures are being taken on existing properties to achieve the 2050 climate target, with the integration of solar energy playing a central role.
Due to the considerable roof areas of DHL's large warehouse buildings, substantial solar installations can be installed there, enabling DHL to maximize the use of solar energy on the properties.
“Everything we do is geared towards achieving zero emissions by 2050. We have a clear policy on solar energy – every location is screened for solar potential. For existing locations, factors such as the size of the property and the length of the lease are taken into account when considering solar installations. However, we install solar panels on all new sites,” says Jussi Jylhä, Infrastructure Manager, Operations at DHL Supply Chain (Finland) Oy.
Locally generated energy also offers marketing advantages
Currently, 56% of DHL's energy comes from renewable sources, 94% of the electricity it uses is predominantly green. With the goal of energy self-sufficiency and locally generated electricity, DHL is installing solar panels on every property.
In Pirkkala, DHL owns a property of approximately 4,000 square meters, where Solnet Group installed a solar energy system in 2019. DHL was involved in the tender for this project, but an external contractor managed the construction of the building. Solnet Group then worked with the construction company.
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“It is crucial for us to meet our emissions targets while also generating electricity right on site. We have also noticed the marketing benefits of solar energy in building our brand. For example, we use pictures and videos of our Pirkkala site in our sales materials,” mentions Jussi Jylhä.
Security as top priority
When selecting partners for the Pirkkala project, security was already an important factor. Since then, security has become even more important and is clearly one of the most influential factors in decision-making. Solnet Group's intelligent solar system, with remote management and the ability to disconnect power to the panels, were deciding factors.
“The security features and credentials of the Solnet Group solution convinced us, along with its price-performance ratio and suitable guarantees. In addition, Solnet provides production data displayed on screens in our lobby, which generates positive feedback and makes the solar installation visible. Despite its size, the solar array is not visible from the roof, so this way we can demonstrate its effect in reducing emissions and generating electricity,” Jylhä points out.
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As advice for those implementing solar arrays for the first time, Jylhä recommends bringing in an experienced consultant. A company that understands the variables that affect yields and system size, and knows the technical specifications.
“If you have a reliable partner and a solar plant has been built with high-quality equipment, it is relatively maintenance-free to operate. Solnet Group does maintenance once or twice a year. We monitor and report on the system's output ourselves, and Solnet Group handles maintenance and monitors operations at the panel level. Integrating production overview has also been effortless,” Jylhä emphasizes. (hcn)
