The finalised project will have a storage capacity of over 50,000 m², making it the largest hub out of currently 66 in the BayWa r.e. Solar Trade supply chain. The aim is to increase and continuously develop customer service and efficiency in all aspects of the business including the handling of sea freight, warehousing, transport alongside customs and import services. The ground-breaking project is scheduled for completion in early 2024.
Solar Trade, BayWa r.e’s solar trade business is an established market leader in the renewable energies sector. With a network of over 20 world-wide distribution companies, more than 1,400 employees and over 30 years of experience, the wholesaler sells its photovoltaic components globally. Solar Trade supports and supplies installers and cooperation partners with innovative photovoltaic products throughout the B2B sector.
Certified “Excellent” by BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) the final concept of the logistics hub includes a PV system with a capacity of 7,3 MWp on the roofs of the hub. This system will provide enough electricity for the entire logistics hub including the electrified barges, terminal trucks and car fleet. In line with both Seacon's and BayWa r.e.'s sustainability policy the logistics hub will therefore be entirely climate-neutral.
Frank Jessel, Global Director of Solar Trade at BayWa r.e., says: “The hub at the Wanssum container port will enable us to offer our customers an even better service in the future. The increased connectivity reduces delivery and storage times, while at the same time increasing product availability. Last but not least, the project is designed to be completely sustainable, so together with our partner Seacon we are setting an example in the fight against climate change.”
Dominik Dohr, Global Head Supply Chain Solar Trade at BayWa r.e., adds: “In order to make product availability and security of supply for our customers as efficient and sustainable as possible, the new logistics hub in Wanssum plays an essential role in our supply chain. The direct barge connection to the container port of Rotterdam makes Wanssum our gateway for importing PV modules for the European market. Service, efficiency and sustainability are harmonised here.”
Sylvester van de Logt, CEO of Seacon Logistics, adds: “The cooperation with BayWa r.e. Solar Trade fits perfectly with our vision of creating significant added value along our customers' supply chains and continuously improving our service. In concrete terms, this means tailor-made end-to-end supply chain solutions based on a sustainable foundation that has been awarded “Excellent” by BREEAM. Together with BayWa r.e. Solar Trade, Seacon will in future take on the responsible task of making optimum use of the electricity generated.”
