Schoeller-Bleckmann Oilfield Equipment AG (SBO) takes another step under its crisis-proof energy concept: solar power generated on the company's business premises will supply production at the SBO plant in Ternitz. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new photovoltaic plants was held by Gerald Grohmann, CEO of SBO, and Frank Dumeier, CEO of W.E.B Windenergie AG. From 2023 on, the systems covering a generator area of 7,000 square meters are expected to produce around 1,450 MWh of regional energy annually.

This will avoid CO2 emissions amounting to 434,000 kg per year. In its "Strategy 2030", SBO has defined one of its targets to further reduce the Group's greenhouse gas emissions. The new PV systems will make a significant contribution to reach this goal.

Until now, the existing rooftop system has supplied 180 MWh per year, generating savings of 54,000 kg of CO2 per year. The photovoltaic plant will be built and operated by W.E.B, and the project will be realized entirely without any public subsidies. 100% of the solar power generated will be supplied to SBO on the basis of a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

The ground-mounted systems will have a total installed capacity of around 1.4 MWp, with the modules being set up in east-west orientation (PEG system) in a way rainwater seeps into the ground unhindered and there is no sealing of open spaces. This system has proven itself repeatedly in W.E.B projects, due to its simple installation and sound solar harvest.