To reduce production costs and the risk of large fluctuations in electricity prices, Nord Produkt decided to install solar systems. And they do not regret it. Namely, since they produce bathroom and kitchen furniture as well as bedroom furniture, and the machines are large consumers of electricity, solar systems have proven to be the best solution for savings.
The project has met expectations, and today, eight years after the power plant was put into operation, Nord Produkt confirms that it actually justifies them even more. They invested 165,000 euros in a 167 kW power plant and have since added another smaller one of 20 kW worth 20,000 euros. They needed five years for a return on investment.
– Although the savings compared to the investment were not large and obvious at first, at least we had our own cheaper electricity, but for the past year and a half, we have been consuming most of the electricity for free. We definitely plan to install more solar panels on new halls – they said at Nord Produkt.
Profitability of Investment
Such examples, according to Veselina Harabajs, the business development manager at the Green Energy Cooperative, indicate that the green transition in Croatia and Europe is experiencing a strong upswing, and investments in renewable energy sources have been steadily increasing over the past five years. More and more entrepreneurs, she added, recognize the benefits of producing their own electricity from the Sun, not only for ecological reasons but also for clear economic advantages. Although it may initially seem like a larger investment, she emphasized that it is an investment with an exceptionally quick return, usually within a few years.
For this reason, in her opinion, such investments are no longer considered long-term but rather short-term, as even after the first phase of return, the solar power plant brings pure profit for decades of its operation.
– The amount of savings and the time for return on investment in solar power plants depend on several factors, from the available roof area and connection power to the way electricity is consumed and the possibility of connecting to the grid. In practice, it has been shown that the savings are very large, and the return on investment is quick. For example, for our clients like the Craftsmen’s Home in Poreč, the payback period was about four years, while for entrepreneurs with constant consumption who use most of the produced energy directly on-site, it was only two to three years – Harabajs clarified.
She states that the most important step is the smart selection of the designer, as a well-made main project allows the system to be optimal and tailored to the needs of the entrepreneur. It is essential to approach each project individually and pay special attention to selecting reliable components and systems, taking into account possible shading, roof orientation, and the energy consumption schedule throughout the day.
– In recent years, we have completed a number of projects for various entrepreneurs, from smaller craftsmen to larger production systems. Among the more prominent are solar power plants for the Craftsmen’s Home in Poreč, Haberkorn, and the City Market in Križevci. These projects demonstrate how a well-planned and executed solar system can bring long-term savings, stability in business, and reduce environmental impact. We continue to maintain long-term relationships with these clients by providing systematic maintenance, monitoring the operation of the power plants, and taking care of the solar power plant – Harabajs described.
Mega Savings on Electricity
The installation of solar panels today is not only an environmentally responsible move but also a smart business decision, believes Mateo Markoč, the business director of Krannich Solar in Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. He confirms that entrepreneurs are increasingly opting for solar power plants to reduce dependence on unstable electricity prices, increase energy independence, and optimize operating costs in the long term.
According to him, solar energy is not just savings but long-term stability, energy independence, and a smart step towards sustainable business, so in times of unpredictable energy costs, investing in solar becomes an increasingly strategic advantage.
– Depending on the size of the system and consumption, entrepreneurs can save from 50 to even 80 percent annually on electricity costs. The investment usually pays off in four to seven years, and considering that solar panels have a lifespan of 25 years or more, this means that for most of that time, the system operates in pure profit. The integration of battery storage systems, which bring a range of additional benefits, is increasingly being considered. When installing, it is crucial for entrepreneurs to consult experts, as the quality of the process, from design to execution, plays a decisive role. Additionally, one should never skimp on equipment. Quality equipment pays off multiple times in the long run, not only due to higher efficiency and reliability but also due to lower risk of failures and reduced maintenance costs. Poor equipment can negate all the advantages of the system, while top-notch technology ensures stable operation and high savings. It is recommended to consider the application of battery systems and integration with smart energy management systems – Markoč noted.
