In today’s logistics industry, sustainability is far more than just a buzzword – it is the driving force behind innovation and essential for future-proof business operations. At Haeger & Schmidt Logistics, we not only recognize the importance of environmentally friendly practices for reducing CO2e emissions, but we also leverage them to enhance the efficiency, resilience, and competitiveness of our logistics solutions. We take responsibility and systematically integrate innovative, sustainable technologies into our operational processes.
In-House Solar Power: Success at Our Administrative Site
A tangible example of our commitment is the installation of a 100 kWp photovoltaic system on the roof of our administration building. In the very first year, we managed to reduce our external electricity consumption by approximately 45%. These savings enabled us to invest in comprehensive air conditioning systems for our office spaces and laid the foundation for further electrifying our vehicle fleet.
Major Project at Duisburg Terminal: Expanding Solar Energy Production
Building on this success, we are currently building a 1 megawatt-peak photovoltaic system at our Duisburg terminal. This system is intended to significantly boost our self-sufficiency in energy for high-consumption handling operations such as crane usage and lighting, further increasing our independence from external energy providers.
Alternative Fuels: Successful Use of HVO
At our Andernach site, we are already successfully using HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) to power the reachstackers and in initial test runs for truck transports. HVO offers a substantially improved CO2e footprint compared to conventional diesel and can be used without any technical modifications. This allows for rapid and effective emissions reductions within our existing vehicle fleet.
First Inland Vessel Testing HVO: The Alfa Menta
A further milestone in our sustainability strategy is the use of HVO on the Alfa Menta, our first vessel in test operation with this alternative fuel. The ship currently operates along the Rhine between Rotterdam and Basel and is easily recognizable thanks to its distinctive banner. The aim of this test is to establish sustainable alternatives for our container transports in the long term and to evaluate the practicality of HVO in daily operations.
E-Mobility in Practice: Positive Interim Review
We have been operating a fully electric truck at our Andernach site for over a year. Despite initial planning challenges related to range management and charging times, the e-truck has proven to be just as reliable as conventional vehicles. These experiences underscore the potential of e-mobility for heavy freight transport under certain conditions and support our strategy to further electrify our fleet.
A Holistic Strategy for Sustainable Logistics Chains
All of these initiatives are integral components of our comprehensive sustainability strategy. Our goal is to offer our customers fully sustainable end-to-end transport solutions – from in-house energy generation to alternative fuels and electric transport technologies. At Haeger & Schmidt Logistics, we firmly believe that environmental responsibility and economic success go hand in hand. We continuously work to make our services even more eco-friendly and future-ready.
Imagesource: Haeger & Schmidt Logistics