Sun on the ways of APK Solar
APK Solar started this project at the end of 2018. The project site, Landpark Assisië, is a place where disabled people live together under supervision. They chose APK Group to create a solar installation to be fitted with 6,106 panels accounting for an output of 1,694kWp. That is enough to power 350 households!
From A to Z, APK Group was responsible for the realisation of this large solar farm. Harry Sijkens, who has been with APK Rasenberg for 15 years, tells us more about how they went about their work: "We started with the design phase, the engineering phase of the work. Among other things, we mapped the shadow effects on the site and did a cost-benefit analysis to calculate the optimal number of solar panels. Based on soil data, site maps and drone images, we then created a digital design with the ideal structure on the available site. We also added a fencing and camera security of the park to the final design at the client's request.
This was followed by the execution phase. Our team started by levelling the site and finished by installing the camera masts. An extensive process with the end result being a functioning solar meadow that we are proud of." The installation was commissioned at the end of 2019. During the course of this successful project, APK Solar was able to certify itself as an installer of solar installations. Finally, they also provide 15 years of post-completion maintenance. This includes e.g. digital monitoring and washing of the panels.
APK Solar has since become part of our wider New Energy division. In addition to solar power, Harry and his team have focused on smart charging infrastructure and battery storage. These are very interesting times for them as they get to explore diverse synergy solutions engineering for all kinds of clients.
For Harry Sijkens, Business Unit Manager of our New Energy division, it is clear why clients should choose APK Group: "In the separate disciplines of solar, charging and storage, there are plenty of companies that can make these solutions. However, APK is unique in being able to realise all interfaces ourselves. We can serve customer requests from A to Z on our own. Most importantly, we can also link the systems so that an optimum use of energy is achieved."
The New Energy division aims to grow even further and fits perfectly within the Netherlands' sustainable goals in these times of energy transition. There is still a lot of potential as green synergy solutions are an increasingly good investment for companies. The growing energy demand from companies and grid congestion in the Netherlands make it a necessity as a company to make the best use of the connection you have available. Besides the financially attractive aspect due to rising energy prices, you also significantly reduce your company's carbon footprint by investing in clean energy.
The installation of solar panels also fits within our own sustainability targets as APK Group. This is why New Energy is equipping its own yard with a solar installation generating 220kWp. Combined with a battery system, this allows them to green charge their fleet of vehicles, among other things!