In the real estate sector, sustainability is no longer a trend but a necessity for future-proof properties. In the municipality of Reichertshofen, near the Bavarian city of Ingolstadt, Real I.S. AG has started the ball rolling in the area of sustainable property development. A modern photovoltaic system has been installed on the about 12,402 square metres roof of a logistics property. The building has been part of an individual fund solution of Real I.S since 2021. The installation reflects the strategic orientation of Real I.S that combines environmental responsibility with economic efficiency. The PV project in Reichertshofen also constitutes a good example how added value can be created for all stakeholders.
The PV project has been realised in collaboration with Sunrock. The solar company is leasing the rooftop surface from Real I.S. and has installed a PV system which it is now operating. The electricity generated comes directly to the lessee of the property, KP Family International GmbH. The result: a win-win situation for all participants. Real I.S. AG enhances the sustainable orientation of its portfolio and receives additional income from leasing the rooftop of this single-tenant logistics property. Sunrock increases its commitments in the area of renewable energies, and the project delivers long-term economic and ecological benefits to KP Family.
Michael Hoffmann: “The PV system is a key competitive edge.”
We spoke to Michael Hoffmann, Head of Logistics at KP Family, about the advantages of the system and its importance for the company:
You will be using the electricity that will be generated yourself. In what form will you benefit from it financially – and do you expect your self-consumption to increase?
Michael Hoffmann: That’s right. We will be using most of the electricity generated on site – this has been part of the concept right from the beginning. When we moved in, in 2021, we knew that the building was ready for PV installation. The planned photovoltaics system was a key factor in the decision for the location. Using the existing roof for the generation of the energy needed to meet the company’s requirements really makes sense, in terms of economy and ecology.
We are currently using it mainly to supply our technical installations, lighting and our charging infrastructure for the company's fleet of electric vehicles. The exact proportion of self-consumption will be shown by the first operating data. However, we obviously expect a noticeable reduction in electricity costs. In the long term, we expect our self-consumption to increase – as further electrified processes or possible automation processes are added, for instance.
What value-added does the PV system offer you with regard to your sustainability targets?
Michael Hoffmann: The PV system is an integral component of our sustainability strategy. It helps us to reduce carbon emissions, to enhance the efficiency of energy supply, and to optimize our operational costs in the long term.
In addition, the system supports further measures, such as the electrification of our company car fleet. Our employees can charge their vehicles at their workplaces – in Reichertshofen too. This allows us to create a consistent image that combines the individual elements of our sustainability strategy, and enables them to be experienced on a daily basis.
How important is the photovoltaic system for your overall ESG strategy?
Michael Hoffmann: PV plays a central role. We do not just want to talk about sustainability – we also want to implement it visibly and measurably. The PV system helps reduce our carbon footprint and strengthens our ESG profile, internally and externally.
It is important to us that such measures are not considered in isolation, but embedded in a holistic approach to corporate responsibility. Thus the PV system is a concrete example for how we combine ecological thinking with economic action.
In your view, does the PV system enhance the attractivity of the premises in Reichertshofen?
Michael Hoffmann: Definitely. Reichertshofen is the flagship of our group. At this location, we test new processes and further develop solutions. We are getting the ball rolling for the whole Group. The PV system facilitates this and adds to the location’s profile in a meaningful way.
A sustainable environment is increasingly important for us – not only from an operational viewpoint, but also in terms of our public image and what we stand for as a company. The system bolsters our processes and the image of this location.
Has KP Family implemented similar plans at other locations, or are you considering an expansion?
Michael Hoffmann: Yes, we already have a complete PV system in operation at another location. It covers most of our local electricity needs. We have learned from this experience that such investments are worthwhile, in ecological and economic terms.
Photovoltaics will certainly play a role in any future plans for new projects and expansion. In our view, it is now an essential part of any efficient utilisation plan for logistics properties.
How important for you was it that the implementation proceeded smoothly during the installation phase?
Michael Hoffmann: Very important – and it worked really well. Coordination with the operating company, Sunrock, and all other participating firms, was very good organized and reliable. We were regularly informed of the progress of work. Operations could continue without any major restrictions during the entire construction phase.
Of course, you notice when work is being done on the roof – but everything ran absolutely according to expectations. Even bigger interventions, such as connecting to the transformer network, were properly coordinated in advance. For a project of this magnitude, it was a very well planned process.
We thank Michael Hoffmann of KP Family for this interview.
Conclusion
The project in Reichertshofen shows clearly how sustainability can go hand in hand with profitability in the real estate sector. The installation of a photovoltaics system clearly demonstrates Real I.S. AG’s commitment to future-oriented property development that combines environmental responsibility with economic efficiency. Real I.S.’s strategy of extending sustainable energy designs to further properties not only offers the potential for decarbonising the portfolio, but also enhances the attractivity of buildings for tenants and investors, and contributes to the sustainable transformation of the property industry.