Sunrock is the Dutch market leader in logistics-based solar roofs. “That market is no longer focused on maximising PV,” says Karlijn Elias-Peters. “It’s driven by integrated energy solutions.”
You started last year as managing director of Sunrock Netherlands…
“I’ve been working here for a while, starting in 2021 as a Project Developer and becoming Head of New Markets in 2024. The big question was where we would expand next, besides the Netherlands, Germany, and France. Shortly after, we decided to focus on the countries we were already serving. The market was changing rapidly, and I was asked to lead our activities in the Netherlands and help our clients with new energy challenges.’
How is Sunrock doing in the Netherlands?
“Good. Sunrock grew its business by installing solar roofs for logistics and industrial companies. We’ve installed approximately 600 megawatts of PV at around 250 locations, making us the market leader in this field and enabling us to build many strong customer relationships. However, the time of simply installing a lot of solar panels on roofs as quickly as possible is over; a new era has dawned.”
What era?
“The energy issue has changed and become part of our customers’ business operations. How can I get more solar power from my own roof? Can I get a grid connection or upgrade it? I want to electrify, but is that even possible? How can I use solar power to charge my trucks? These are examples of current questions that companies are grappling with. In line with this, we are focusing more on existing customers, helping them with long-term solutions.”
Grid congestion and increasingly negative energy prices are the problem…
” The entire solar sector is experiencing this, including us. But our assets are manageable through an energy management system (EMS). Consider, for example, increasing local consumption, optimising with a battery, and making smart use of the various energy markets. We have our own energy trading team that maximises solar power yields. Integrated, flexible solutions for generation, storage, and consumption are the future. This will provide new market momentum.”
Logistics property owners recognize the importance of this?
“The market is evolving. Some haven’t even started looking at it yet. However, you’re seeing a growing number of interested parties, for example, because they want to go green, control their own energy consumption, or ensure the continuity of their properties by making them more sustainable. We can fully support them in this process.”
Installing a battery is now standard practice for you?
“That’s also gaining momentum. Sunrock is analysing the best options together with customers. We help companies optimise their local energy consumption; a battery often plays a role here. We also sometimes discuss proactive investments, for example, with a view to the future electrification of transport, which we also support. Smartly controlling your energy system with an EMS is crucial in this regard, and it’s something we’ve invested heavily in ourselves.”
Sunrock’s work has become much more complex…
“Sunrock experienced enormous growth by installing solar panels on roofs. However, that’s no longer the norm. There’s been a shift toward energy systems that combine all sorts of technologies and functionalities. The Dutch market has become one of integrated energy solutions. That’s a lot more complex, but also much more exciting. The demand for flexible energy systems will only increase in the coming years. Those who invest now will be at the forefront later.”
Full credits to Solar & Storage Magazine. To read the full article (in Dutch), click here.
