W&H focuses on solar energy: Largest photovoltaic system in Lengerich officially in operation
With the commissioning of new photovoltaic systems at Plants 1 and 4, Windmöller & Hölscher is sending a clear signal for sustainability and active environmental protection.
W&H generates solar energy on a large scale with new PV systems. Energy managers Nils Ruwe (left) and Bernhard Wilken are delighted with the successful completion of the project and the system on the roof of Plant 4.
The new system on the roof of Plant 4, with an output of 1,300 kWp, is the largest of its kind in Lengerich and the surrounding area. “This was the coolest project I’ve been involved in so far,” says Nils Ruwe, Energy Manager at W&H. Together with factory planner Bernhard Wilken, he was responsible for project management and implementation. “We now generate over one million kilowatt hours of green electricity annually—directly on site and for our own plants. This not only makes economic sense, but is also a clear commitment to environmental and climate protection.”
Two new PV systems – one common goal
Over the past year, the systems were installed on the roofs of the production halls and connected to the grid. Plant 1 now has 384 solar modules with a total output of 169 kWp, generating around 150,000 kWh of electricity per year.
The system at Plant 4 is even larger: with an installed capacity of 1,300 kWp, it produces over 1 million kWh annually—enough to supply more than 250 households. “The PV systems enable us to cover a significant portion of our electricity needs ourselves—and without emissions,” emphasizes Bernhard Wilken.
Challenging planning and implementation
The path to commissioning was technically and bureaucratically demanding: the roofs had to be thoroughly inspected in advance—for load-bearing capacity, shading, and existing technology. Installation at heights of up to 25 meters was carried out using a telescopic loader with a long boom. In addition, a complex measurement concept had to be developed to precisely record and distinguish between the various energy sources: PV system, combined heat and power plant, and emergency generator.
The projects were carried out in close cooperation with a company specializing in photovoltaic solutions for industrial buildings. “Everything went smoothly, from the tender process to commissioning,” says Ruwe.
Sustainability as a corporate goal
The PV project is part of a comprehensive sustainability strategy that also includes ISO 50001 certification, which W&H successfully completed in 2024. The goal is to continuously improve the company’s energy performance and sustainably reduce its carbon footprint. “When you see the modules from above, it immediately becomes clear how important environmental and climate protection is to us,” says Wilken.
In the future, additional plants at the Lengerich site will also benefit from solar power—plans are already underway.
