The decarbonisation of property portfolios represents a central challenge, in which photovoltaics play a significant role. As part of its sustainability strategy, Aroundtown is expanding the generation of renewable energy within its own portfolio, with the aim of reducing the environmental footprint of its properties. This initiative contributes to increasing energy independence and reducing emissions by utilising existing roof spaces for electricity generation.
To date, photovoltaic systems with a total capacity of approximately 15.8 Megawatt peak (MWp) have been installed on over 150 roofs across about 120 properties in Germany and the Netherlands. This demonstrates a consistent implementation of the strategy for using renewable energy sources. The continuous expansion underlines the importance of this measure for the long-term value and competitiveness of the portfolio.
Focus on tenant-landlord cooperation
An exemplary project for this expansion includes a portfolio of 16 properties fully leased to ATU, one of the leading automotive service providers in Germany. The configuration as single-tenant properties enabled intensive coordination between Aroundtown as the landlord and ATU as the tenant throughout all project phases. This led to efficient planning and installation of the systems, as well as the direct use of the renewable electricity generated on-site by the tenant.
The installed systems at these 16 locations achieve a capacity of more than 1.4 MWp. They are expected to generate approximately 1.0 Gigawatt-hours (GWh) of renewable electricity annually. Through this measure, around 284 tonnes of CO₂ emissions can be avoided by 2026. Limor Bermann, Chief Sustainability Officer at Aroundtown, explained that the decarbonisation of an existing portfolio requires effective and scalable solutions. Photovoltaics on roofs are a suitable example, as they utilise existing areas, increase local electricity generation, and can be implemented across various properties. The expansion at the 16 locations illustrates the transformation of a proven solution into a portfolio-level measure through close cooperation between landlord and tenant.
Markus Winkler, Branch Network Development at ATU, confirmed the benefits of the cooperation. The systems on the roofs would supply electricity precisely when the branches need it – during the day and directly on-site. This reduces reliance on grid supply and increases independence from price fluctuations. Coordination was close, from site selection to commissioning. Aroundtown's provision of roof areas and driving forward the expansion would prove advantageous for ATU at each individual location. The integration of photovoltaics on existing roof surfaces thus combines the reduction of emissions with strengthened energy resilience and improves the long-term competitiveness of the properties.
