Kuehne + Nagel

The Challenge

Kuehne+Nagel International AG operates at the forefront of global logistics, where energy-intensive operations are critical to daily performance but contribute to high and unpredictable electricity costs. At their Mississauga flagship facility, rising energy rates and increasing consumption threatened both financial targets and long-term competitiveness. Additionally, the organisation recognised a need to proactively address environmental sustainability and to gain greater control over its energy supply by reducing dependence on local utilities.

The Solution

To address these challenges, Kuehne+Nagel partnered with Otter Energy, Ontario’s leader in commercial solar solutions. After evaluating the facility’s needs and exploring available options, they selected Otter Energy for its proven track record, integrated project delivery, and technical expertise in large-scale solar deployment. Otter Energy’s in-house engineering and construction teams designed a tailored solar array leveraging 3,000 CanadianSolar modules and Huawei inverters, ensuring optimal system performance and compliance with industry safety standards. The seamless, turn-key process—from design and procurement to construction and commissioning—minimized operational disruption and maximized project value. As Peter Vogel, Director of Business Development, noted: “Our solar solution produces 89% of KUEHNE+NAGEL electricity needs and saves them $361,080 per year.”

The Results

The completed solar energy system now supplies the majority of the site’s electricity needs, delivering immediate and ongoing financial benefits. Kuehne+Nagel realizes annual savings of $361,080, with total lifetime savings projected at $9,026,996. The project achieves a payback period of just 5.91 years and a robust total ROI of 689%. Beyond financial returns, the installation significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, supporting Kuehne+Nagel’s Net Zero aspirations and reinforcing the company’s position as a sustainability leader in the logistics sector.