Ohlthaver & List Group has broken ground to start construction of a Philippsee floating photovoltaic power plant in Bad Schönborn, Germany.
With an investment value of approximately N$350 million, the solar park will be built on the gravel lake of Philipp & Co KG in Bad Schönborn.
It will consist of over 27,000 PV panels and cover more than eight hectares of water surface area.
The investment in the project is being made through O&L Europe SE, the German Holding company of OLFITRA.
The Group said the development marks a significant advancement in sustainable energy development in Europe and highlights O&L’s dedication to environmental responsibility, social inclusion, and economic prosperity.
With a workforce of over 5,500 employees and a history dating back to 1919, O&L has been a pioneer in various industries, prioritising sustainable practices and making meaningful contributions to society and the environment.
“This is a remarkable milestone in our collective journey. With immense pride, we join hands with our partners and co-investors, O&L Europe SE and Phillip & Co KG to celebrate the groundbreaking of what will soon stand as Germany’s grandest floating solar park,” said O&L’s Executive Chairman Sven Thieme.
“Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Bad Schönborn, this project epitomises our resolute commitment to innovation and sustainability. We are truly proud of our century-old legacy, built on the O&L foundation of authenticity, care, and passion, and we remain committed to responsible stewardship, ensuring minimal impact on the environment through meticulous monitoring programmes. As we set forth on this groundbreaking journey, we do so with a shared vision of a brighter, greener future.”
The Philippsee project stands as Germany’s largest floating PV system. The initiative not only represents a leap forward in sustainable energy but also highlights the power of partnership in reaching important environmental goals.
Meanwhile, Sabrina Steinhauser, the Spokesperson for O&L Europe SE, said the mission resonates with the global call for sustainable and ethically responsible development.
Adding that through investments in projects like the Philippsee floating PV system, they are actively driving positive change, promoting ecologically meaningful initiatives, and contributing to societal development.
“This investment is a clear demonstration of our ongoing dedication to sustainable development and our unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world around us. We are genuinely excited about the opportunities this project brings and eagerly anticipate the chance to further our mission of creating a more sustainable future for all. Our partnership with Philipp & Co. KG and O&L Nexentury GmbH, the renewable energy arm of O&L, exemplifies a model of collaborative success”, she said.
The company’s unwavering commitment to technological innovation ensures that its clients receive the most advanced solar solutions, thus contributing to global sustainability goals and a greener planet.
Implementation of the solar system will result in a reduction of about 11,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year, O&L estimates.
In addition, O&L through its subsidiary, Nexentury, is dedicated to being a world-class sustainable energy partner, as a leader in solar energy solutions, by way of adopting solar technology to benefit local communities through job creation, reduced energy costs, and a cleaner environment.
O&L Nexentury has presence in Windhoek, Cape Town and Munich/Freiburg to serve customers with their respective energy needs.
The German government aims to generate 80% of its electricity from renewable sources, leading to an increase in investment towards renewable energy capacity.
