New commercial property with innovative energy technology

Kaltenbach TG, May 2024

Immatica AG has received the building permit for a modern commercial building in Kaltenbach, equipped with advanced photovoltaic and storage technology to maximize energy efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions.

Immatica AG was granted planning permission for a commercial building on the site of Matica AG in Kaltenbach, to which it belongs, at the beginning of 2024. Matica AG specialises in the manufacture of energy-efficient storage tanks and the construction of special containers. Post AG will be the tenant of the 1,500 square metre new building from the beginning of 2025, as the previous site in Stein am Rhein SH has become too small, according to a press release.

The flat roof will be equipped with a 1000 square metre photovoltaic (PV) system. A new type of storage technology will also be able to supply the building with solar energy in winter. With a sorption heat pump (SWP), the potential of solar energy can be stored for any length of time using a chemical process. The reversal process produces heat that can be used for heating in winter. The SWP solves several challenges of the energy transition: From the system operator’s point of view, it increases the PV system’s degree of self-utilisation and thus better cushions energy price fluctuations, according to the press release. It also helps to reduce seasonal fluctuations in the electricity grid. This relieves pressure on the grid and reduces the need for grid expansion. The use of the PV system with an annual output of around 215 kilowatt peak could save 33 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Post AG wants to deliver all its letters in a climate-neutral way by 2030. The electricity generated by the PV system will be used to power all electrical systems in the building as well as the electric charging infrastructure for the electric vehicles. The SWP in Kaltenbach is the second pilot plant to be realised by Matica AG in collaboration with Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts and Helbling Technik AG. In summer 2024, the first system will go into operation at the carcass collection centre in Frauenfeld.

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