„Growing energy prices sparked an acceleration in the demand for economical solutions, namely photovoltaics. In using this avenue, customers can procure part of their energy expenditure from their own source for the following 30 years. In addition, this energy source is renewable and produces clean energy without CO2  emissions,“ Kamil Čermák, chairman and CEO of ČEZ ESCO, the largest supplier of modern and economic solutions in Czechia’s energetics, said.

What sort of increase in demand for modern energetics solutions from companies and other subjects are you experiencing right now?

Currently, we are seeing a surge in demand everywhere. The interannual demand for photovoltaics at ČEZ ESCO has tripled, and revenue from contracted EPC projects experienced a similar spike. In this same vein I could list off changes in many other fields as well.

If companies want to start saving money in energetics, where should they start?

Customers are sometimes unsure as to exactly what they want, however, that is what we are here for, to consult them and tailor a solution that is ideal for them. We do our best to accommodate customer demands and look for specific technological solutions to fit them. Sometimes, the answer may be photovoltaics, other times it may include cogeneration, or a measurement or regulation system, while some cases may require optimization of their entire energy economy. We discuss these options with companies that might have unused roof real estate and are considering methods to put it to good use.

How would you characterize a typical customer of yours?

Our customer base spans a wide scope. It may include business chains, strategic enterprises with a long list of venues spread across the country, public buildings and offices, or even future-conscious family businesses. Growing energy prices sparked an acceleration in the demand for economical solutions, namely photovoltaics. In using this avenue, customers can procure part of their energy expenditure from their own source for around the following 30 years. In addition to that, this energy source is renewable, and produces clean energy without CO2 emissions. One of the biggest recent photovoltaic projects was completed for the central warehouse of Billa. This project covered the over 5 000 square meters of roof with over 1 800 solar panels, which resulted in a solution that generates over a thousand MWh of emission-free electricity annually, covering a quarter of the warehouse’s consumption and saving over 500 tons of CO2.

You offer companies the “photovoltaics for a single crown” service, what is this exactly?

This is a collaborative product prepared in conjunction with Komerční Banka. Installation of photovoltaic power plants does not require any entry capital. We offer this as a turnkey solution, which includes any necessary administrative action, servicing and insurance of subsequent operation. Throughout the entire repayment period, our customers are provided with any servicing they might need. Photovoltaic plants have a lifespan of over 30 years.

What is the energy consumption threshold suitable for this service?

Photovoltaics for a single crown is appropriate for buildings with an energy consumption figure exceeding 200 MWh per year. The guarantee of solar panel efficiency is typically above 80% after 25 years of use.

What sort of savings can companies expect from this?

Cities, regions and their funded organizations can save up to hundreds of millions of crowns. Larger projects might be able to reach upwards of 20 millions crowns per year.

Mr Čermák, thank you for the interview.