From Architecture to Energy: Berko Expands Solar Generation Across Its Building Envelope

From Architecture to Energy: Berko Expands Solar Generation Across Its Building Envelope
From Architecture to Energy: Berko Expands Solar Generation Across Its Building Envelope

At Berko Kompressoren’s manufacturing site in the Netherlands, solar energy has moved beyond the rooftop to the building envelope. With roof space already fully utilized, the company turned to its façades to expand on site generation while maintaining architectural coherence. This project highlights how photovoltaic technology can be integrated into vertical surfaces to provide operational value without sacrificing the factory’s aesthetic design.
Project results
Annual Power Generation
24000 kWh/year Annual Power Generation
Annual CO₂ Reduction
128784 tonnes more Annual CO₂ Reduction
Annual power generation benefit
380200 trees Equivalent to annual tree planting
The integration of AIKO powered façade panels delivered both technical and strategic benefits: Expanded Capacity: The system unlocked over 200 m² of previously unused vertical surface area, adding 40 kWp of total capacity. Optimized Generation Profile: Unlike roof only systems, the east and west facing façades deliver higher output in the morning and late afternoon, perfectly aligning with the factory’s electricity demand. Grid Independence: By maximizing self consumption, Berko avoids the multi year waiting periods for grid expansion while reducing reliance on external energy providers. Architectural Synergy: The use of AIKO’s performance baseline allowed Soluxa to achieve a seamless look that serves as a visible sustainability statement for Berko’s customers.
Client Client Testimonial
Our roofs were already full of solar panels, but that did not make us self sufficient in the morning and afternoon. The solar façade generates electricity exactly at those moments, which we can use directly in the factory. Our customers increasingly expect concrete sustainability measures from their suppliers, and the solar façade shows how we are translating those expectations into action.
Paul Kokke, Founder, and Tom Kokke CEO of Berko Kompressoren
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