“Those who do not move with the times will be overtaken by them.” This observation, already made by Friedrich Schiller in the 18th century, still holds true today—especially for industrial companies that fail to adapt to sustainable production practices. Parmaco has chosen a different path: with its new photovoltaic system, the company is sending a strong signal for environmental protection. More than that, the investment also strengthens the company’s economic efficiency.
Figure 1: Aerial view of the Parmaco AG premises before the installation of the photovoltaic system
Environmental Protection as an Economic Opportunity
photovoltaic system, which has been in operation since July 2024, now covers 25% of the company’s electricity demand. With this step, Parmaco significantly reduces its ecological footprint while sustainably lowering energy costs.
Investing in solar energy offers multiple benefits. Parmaco can reduce its dependence on external power suppliers while improving its CO₂ balance. In addition, the total cost per kWh of self-generated solar electricity is more stable and lower over time than purchased electricity, as self-produced power does not incur grid usage charges.
Insight into Switzerland’s Electricity Cost Structure
When electricity is drawn from the grid, industrial power costs in Switzerland consist of two main components: the cost of the electricity itself and the cost of grid usage, known as network charges.
The cost of electricity is billed to the consumer by the freely selectable electricity provider at the agreed price per kWh.
Network charges, on the other hand, are billed by the local grid operator for each kilowatt-hour consumed and cannot be chosen by the consumer. These charges cover all infrastructure-related costs for electricity distribution. Costs associated with peak power demand are particularly significant, along with various and steadily increasing levies to promote sustainable electricity generation.
An in-house solar installation provides savings in two ways when the generated electricity is consumed internally: first, less electricity needs to be purchased, and second, lower network charges apply. If the solar power is fed into the grid, however, typically only the electricity cost is reimbursed—if at all—while network charges are not.
Figure 2: Aerial view of the Parmaco AG premises after installation of the photovoltaic system, showing fully integrated solar panels on the roof surfaces.
Electricity Storage: A Glimpse into the Future
The greatest value of a solar installation is achieved when all the electricity produced can be consumed in-house. This is possible through intermediate storage in batteries. Such a solution becomes particularly attractive if the batteries can also be used to shave peak loads. Parmaco therefore plans to make use of this optimization option in the near future, enabling even more efficient utilization of solar power.
An Ironic Sidenote
Parmaco continuously strives to evaluate and, where appropriate, adopt new and sustainable technologies for its operations and production processes. The new photovoltaic system is another step along this path.
Georg Breitenmoser, owner and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Parmaco, observes with a touch of irony that more and more politicians are beginning to grasp the consequences of poorly thought-out energy policies. Despite all other technologies labeled as “green,” nuclear power is likely to become socially acceptable again sooner rather than later. The misguided move away from nuclear energy will, hopefully, soon be a thing of the past, allowing nuclear power to once again strengthen security of supply. Until then, the focus remains on photovoltaics.