Low-Carbon Transition of an Austrian Commercial Campus | HUAWEI Smart PV Global

In Navista Business Park, in a village located in Tyrol, Austria, a green energy transition is underway.

High Electricity Prices and Energy Independence Challenges in Austria

Austria relies on hydropower from the Alps, which provides 60% of its energy, and ensures stable electricity for businesses and residents.

However, recent fluctuations in the global energy market, along with rising fossil fuel prices, have led to a significant increase in electricity costs. Commercial and industrial (C&I) electricity prices now range from €0.15 to €0.20 per kWh, placing substantial financial pressure on enterprises.

Businesses are now turning to innovative solutions to save costs and become energy independent.

Stefan Ortner, a local resident of Tyrol, identified opportunities in the shifting energy market. Six years ago, as electricity prices rose, he discovered PV power generation and believed in its potential for "super green investments."

A year later, he founded PVO - Photovoltaik Ortner (hereinafter referred to as “PVO”) to develop PV projects for C&I parks and communities. "Rooftop PV suits Tyrol's limited space and costs just €0.035 per kWh; it's far cheaper than grid electricity, and offers significant benefits to businesses," Stefan Ortner explained.

Stefan Ortner's vision aligns with Austria's renewable energy goals. In 2021, the government passed the Renewable Energy Expansion Act, aiming for the installation of PV systems on 1 million rooftops by 2030 to achieve 100% renewable electricity.

PV is now a key part of Austria's energy strategy, addressing high electricity costs and energy independence.

PVO Works with Huawei to Tackle High Electricity Prices and Climate Change

Stefan Ortner's team expanded from smaller C&I rooftop PV projects in Tyrol to larger C&I parks. However, Tyrol's harsh winters with snow and strong winds demanded more robust PV equipment, while customers sought out greater efficiency and long-term stability.

Stefan Ortner emphasized the need for a strong partner to tackle these challenges, stating, "The right product is essential to ensure long-term operation of PV plants under these conditions."

It is in this context that PVO Energy and Huawei FusionSolar have partnered. In 2024, the two parties launched a milestone project in Navista Business Park, a commercial complex spanning 7,838 m2, in Hall in Tyrol. It features 39 commercial unit, primarily used as warehouses for handicrafts, industrial products, and small commodities. Karl Schaber, CEO of Karl Real Estate and owner of the business park, aims to make this modern C&I property a benchmark for sustainable development.

The Navista PV Project uses 10 Huawei SUN2000-150K-MG0 inverters with smart string design, achieving a conversion efficiency of about 99% for higher energy yield. Their IP66 rating ensures stable operation in harsh conditions like cold, snow, and strong winds. Huawei's remote management system allows Stefan's team to monitor real-time performance, quickly locate and rectify faults, improve reliability, and lower O&M costs.

In late 2024, after an implementation period of just 6 weeks, this 1.75 MW PV project was successfully put into operation, providing nearly 2 million kWh of clean electricity to Navista Business Park every year.

Karl Schaber praised the project, noting that PV power generation lowers tenant operating costs and enhances the park's appeal. "This long-term investment balances price and quality, which is why we chose PVO," said Karl Schaber. "Economic efficiency and product quality are key. Huawei's technical support ensures project safety and success, boosting our confidence for future development."

The Navista PV Project marks the first step in the park's green transition. Karl Schaber is optimistic, stating, "We are entering a new era of energy efficiency. PV is just the beginning. Future plans include electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging stations across 30,000 square meters, and integrating an energy storage system (ESS) to ensure reliable, affordable green power, and achieve our sustainability goals."

This project highlights Austria's energy transformation, as businesses shift from passive consumers to proactive innovators of energy. The integration of PV, ESS, and EV charging facilities acts as a blueprint for Austria's green economy, and offers a replicable model for global sustainability.