SEKISUI embraces solar energy with new installation
SEKISUI has taken a significant step towards sustainability by installing a state-of-the-art solar panel system on the roof of SEKISUI POLYMATECH EUROPE B.V. in Roemond. This new installation consists of 496 panels, generating a total capacity of 295,000 Wp. The estimated annual yield of this system is an impressive 348,460 kWh, with 42% of the generated power being used internally and the remaining 58% fed back into the grid.
During the winter months, all generated power will be utilized, while in the summer, excess energy is sold back to the grid. With the installation and known numbers, the estimation is to reduce the carbon footprint by 105 tons of CO2 per year.
Who is SEKISUI POLYMATECH EUROPE B.V.
SEKISUI POLYMATECH EUROPE B.V. (SPE) produces thermal interface materials for car and battery manufacturers and producers of powertrains and chassis components. As part of the SEKISUI CHEMICAL Group, the company serves the increasing demand for thermal interface materials while keeping safety, quality and sustainability as its top priorities. SPE received the ISO50001, which is an ISO standard focused on Energy Management and the reduction of energy. All energy initiatives are covered by this standard.
Implementation of the solar panel system
Despite the building not being originally designed for solar panels, which posed challenges due to the uneven roof, full coverage of the manufacturing building was chosen due to its return on investment (ROI), which is expected in less than 4.5 years. The installation was successfully carried out in February considering ample space for walking and maintenance purposes.
The plan to install solar panels is not new, but the timing of the installation was crucial, as the cost of solar panels has significantly reduced by 35% compared to one year ago.
SPE is the third SEKISUI company in the Netherlands having solar panels on its building, and we hope this will inspire more of our companies.
The installation is being handled by New Energy Systems (www.newenergysystems.nl), with Dierx (dierx.eu) assisting in connecting the system to the internal grid.
Environmental and financial Impact
SEKISUI’s long-term vision, Vision 2030, emphasizes the importance of innovation in creating a sustainable future where people can live safely and peacefully. This vision is supported by the Mid-term Management Plan, Drive 2.0, which outlines strategies for sustainable growth and strategic innovation. As part of SEKISUI's plan and in pursuit of this goal, SEKISUI POLYMATECH focuses on using renewable energy to reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainability through the solar panel system implementation.
Financially, SEKISUI POLYMATECH expects to save more than €40,000 annually on energy bills. These savings will enable the company to invest in and develop more sustainable projects, furthering its commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation.
As the project manager, I ensured that the implementation of solar panels was conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all relevant regulations. The primary objective of this initiative was to increase our renewable energy capabilities for our operations, thereby improving our financial outlook. This aligns with our current strategies under ISO50001 and Scope 3 CO₂e calculations. Additionally, this project will positively impact our image among current and potential customers.