CIGS solar technology boosts energy efficiency and reliability across Elkor’s refrigerated fleet.
PHU Elkor operates an intensive refrigerated transport operation across Europe, moving temperature-sensitive goods including fruit, vegetables, white goods, and electronics. Reliable cooling and power stability are essential to protect cargo – and to maintain strict delivery schedules.
Challenge
“We were seeking sustainable technologies to support efficiency and reduce operational costs, while maintaining reliability for perishable goods transport.” — Marta Lussa, CFO, Elkor
For Elkor, heavy electrical loads from refrigeration units and auxiliary systems created ongoing challenges:
- Higher fuel consumption
- Shorter battery life
- Increased alternator load
- Frequent maintenance callouts
- Higher operational and environmental costs
They needed a solution that could:
- Reduce auxiliary fuel consumption
- Extend battery life for demanding cooling operations
- Improve system reliability on long EU routes
- Support sustainability goals
- Integrate cleanly with modern truck models and aerodynamic surfaces
Solution
“Green Energy’s solar system has enhanced our fleet efficiency and sustainability.” — Marta Lussa, CFO, Elkor
From early experiments to next-gen CIGS technology
Elkor first installed solar on trucks in 2017, sourcing components independently and installing them via their in-house workshop. Earlier systems required custom oversized spoilers to avoid cracking rigid silicon panels on curved roofs.
2025: Upgrading to new CIGS thin-film solar
Elkor has now transitioned to Green Energy CIGS thin-film solar panels, supplied through Volvo (Nijwa) and installed with support from Green Energy Group.
CIGS technology enables:
- Installation on factory spoilers with no modifications
- Reliable performance on curved surfaces
- Higher durability, flexibility, and vibration resistance
- Consistent output across all weather conditions
System size and rollout
Elkor is using a mix of system configurations:
- 110 Wp CIGS panels on earlier installations
- New order: 110 Wp CIGs solar panels (2 x 55Wp) for 35 trucks
- Installed directly on Volvo FH Aero Globetrotter cabs and other models
Designed for real refrigerated workloads
The systems provide:
- Battery charging support
- Power for cooling and auxiliary functions
- Reduced alternator load
- Lower engine idling to maintain energy supply
The installations were fast, required no structural modifications, and were integrated with Elkor’s in-house service capabilities.
Results
“We have observed reduced fuel use, extended battery life, and more reliable auxiliary systems. This has led to fewer maintenance requirements and lower CO₂ emissions.” — Marta Lussa, CFO, Elkor
Green Energy’s CIGS solar systems have delivered clear, measurable improvements across Elkor’s operations:
Operational improvements
- Reduced fuel consumption, particularly during long cooling cycles
- Extended battery life, reducing frequency of replacements
- More reliable cooling performance on cross-border routes
- Fewer electrical-related workshop callouts
- Lower alternator load → improved mechanical efficiency
Environmental & cost impact
- Lower CO₂ emissions
- Reduced idling
- Lower auxiliary energy cost per route
Elkor expects 4–7% fuel savings based on alternator relief and reduced idling — aligning with their long-term energy-reduction strategy.
Driver satisfaction
“Drivers appreciate the reduced reliance on engine power for cooling and battery support — it makes their work easier.” — Marta Lussa, CFO, Elkor
- Longer runtime for onboard comfort systems
- Fewer battery warnings
- Greater energy independence during rest periods
Future expansion
If fuel-saving targets are met, Elkor plans to install CIGS panels across its entire fleet of ~140–150 vehicles.
The company’s latest rollout to 35 additional trucks marks the next step toward full fleet adoption.
Fact box: Elkor at a glance
| Company | PHU Elkor |
| Sector | Refrigerated transport and freight forwarding |
| Location | Poland (operating across the EU) |
| Fleet | ~150 refrigerated truck–trailer combinations (22.5 t capacity) |
| Solar rollout | – Existing systems installed on selected trucks – Recent purchase of 110 Wp (2 x 55Wp) solar panels for 35 trucks – Earlier installations with 110 Wp panels |
| Use case | Battery support + auxiliary cooling + reduced idling |
| Primary goals | Reduce fuel use, extend battery life, lower CO₂ emissions |
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Read more about Elkor’s solar journey here
To see what solar can do for your fleet, contact us today
About Green Energy
At Green Energy, we believe sustainability should be practical, measurable, and accessible. Our flexible, ultra-thin CIGS solar panels can be mounted directly on vehicle roofs, work even in partial shade, and are highly resistant to shock and vibration – making them perfect for the demanding conditions of the transport sector.
With our in-house developed Fleet Tracker system, companies can also document their energy production, CO₂ savings, and fuel reductions – ready for ESG reporting.
Read more about how our solution work here: greenenergy.pro/how-it-works
Read more about our appearance in Børsen: borsen.dk
