Energy independence and e-mobility: This is how logistics companies are getting ready for the future

The logistics sector is facing major challenges. Increasing energy costs, strict environmental regulations and ambitious climate goals are putting pressure on companies to adapt their processes and make them more sustainable. At the same time, technological innovations such as electric trucks, charging infrastructure, photovoltaics and battery storage offer exciting prospects for the future.

As part of the series of events “30 minutes for greater sustainability”, organized by Kompetenznetz Logistik.NRW, our CTO Thomas Kec gave a presentation in which he deepened these topics and presented practical solutions for logistics companies. For anyone who missed the presentation, we will summarize the most important content in this article.

Click here to record the presentation

The challenges of the logistics sector

The transformation towards climate-neutral logistics presents both opportunities and hurdles. Companies see themselves with rising energy costs who are difficult to predict due to the volatility of the markets. Add strict environmental requirements, such as reducing CO₂ emissions for trucks: By 2030, savings of 45% are required compared to 2019, and even 90% by 2040. Such requirements require high investments, in particular in the electrification of vehicle fleets and the development of charging infrastructure. There are also massive bottlenecks at the infrastructure level. Although the federal government is using programs such as “Power to Road” promotes the development of fast charging stations, there are currently only around 10,000 charging points available for electric trucks in Europe. By 2030, over 300,000 will be needed to handle the expected share of more than 30% electric trucks.

E-mobility as a key technology

Electric trucks are no longer a vision of the future, but are already a reality. Models such as the E-Actros reach ranges of up to 500 kilometers and impress with up to 20% lower operating costs compared to diesel trucks. The savings result from the more efficient drivetrain, lower maintenance costs and government benefits such as toll relief. Nevertheless, getting started with e-mobility is fraught with challenges. In addition to the high purchase costs — an E-Actros costs around 350,000 euros — there is a lack of charging infrastructure in many places. Companies are in demand here, in an intelligent mix of slow charging points (AC/DC >50 kW) for the night, fast charging (DC 400+ kW) while operating and developing new technologies such as MCS (Megawatt Charging System).

Photovoltaic: energy from your own roof

Photovoltaics offer logistics companies the opportunity to cover a large part of their energy requirements themselves and reduce costs at the same time. The technology has been tried and tested over decades and is constantly being used with falling investment costs increasingly attractive. By using unused roof or open spaces, companies can not only their Increase self-sufficiency, but also from quick payback periods benefit — often within less than four years. In addition, an increases ESG compliant property their value, which is particularly interesting for investors. Trends such as repowering, i.e. the modernization of existing PV systems, or direct integration into logistics centers open up additional potential.

Battery storage as a smart addition

Battery storage systems make it possible to store excess energy from PV systems and use it in a targeted manner, for example when electricity prices are high or to minimize peak loads. The so-called “Peak Shaving” helps to significantly reduce electricity costs. The costs for battery storage systems are falling continuously, which makes them increasingly attractive for logistics companies. They also open up new opportunities, such as trading electricity in dynamic networks. Would you like to find out more about battery storage? We already have a detailed discussion on this topic blog post created.

How and when to start?

A meaningful transition starts with a careful analysis. Companies should carefully check their vehicle fleet and routes, which Charging requirements determine and the Site conditions evaluate. Based on this, a roadmap can be developed that enables the gradual expansion of the infrastructure over several years.

But when is the right time? The answer is: Now. The earlier companies address these issues, the sooner they can benefit from savings and government subsidies.

Free AI energy check: The perfect start

Our free energy check tool helps companies get started with energy independence. With the help of intelligent algorithms, it analyses your company and shows individual savings potential. All you need to do is provide a few details about your company, its electricity and heating requirements and existing technologies, such as PV systems or district heating). You will then receive an individual energy check, which gives you a broad overview of all current technologies and assesses them tailored to your company.

Click here for the tool: Free energy check

With a clear strategy and the right technologies, logistics companies can not only reduce their costs, but also make a significant contribution to climate neutrality. Start a sustainable future now!

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