DB Schenker follows a comprehensive ESG approach based on three strategic dimensions: a thriving work community, a reliable supply chain, and clean logistics.
The company’s global goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. This target includes Scope 1–3 emissions, meaning it also covers emissions from partners such as transport companies, shipping lines, and airlines. Logistics centers play a significant role in reducing emissions.
“Our goal is to be carbon neutral by 2040, and part of that includes ensuring that 100% of the electricity used in our buildings comes from renewable sources by 2030. This goal has already been achieved in the Nordic countries, where we use 100% wind, hydro, and solar energy. In Finland, we utilize both solar and wind power. At the beginning of 2025, 13 of our locations in Finland will have solar power plants—the most among all Nordic countries. Solar energy plays a major role in achieving this sub-goal,” explains Sonja Saari, DB Schenker’s Sustainability Manager.
“We share one climate, and the climate crisis is a threat to all of us. While the carbon footprint of our properties is relatively small compared to our overall operations, buildings set the direction. They are a key part of the broader effort to mitigate climate change and alleviate the climate crisis. Sustainable energy sources together support our sustainability perspective,” Saari continues.
DB Schenker’s first solar power plant in Finland was built in 2015 in Viinikkala, Vantaa. Since then, the company has integrated solar power into several of its own properties during modernization projects. DB Schenker has also implemented joint projects with landlords.
In collaboration with Solnet Group, DB Schenker has now completed four solar power plants. The latest joint project is the Seinäjoki terminal, which has just been put into operation.
In 2020, 200 kWp and 150 kWp power plants were completed in Lieto and Nurmijärvi. In 2024, 75 kWp and 100 kWp solar power plants were built in Ylivieska and Seinäjoki. In total, DB Schenker’s solar power plants in Finland generate 2 GWh of solar electricity annually, covering over 10% of the company’s electricity consumption in Finland.
"Solnet Group has supplied a significant portion of our solar power plants, which have been competitively tendered according to our procurement policy. The decisive factors for us have been technology, economy, safety, and operational efficiency. Solnet Group’s solution has met all these objectives, which is why our long-standing collaboration continues," says Marko Liimatainen, DB Schenker’s Head of Real Estate.
“We have continuously developed our operations together. We have built strong unity and mutual understanding, which has led to new projects. A new initiative is our maintenance collaboration: Solnet Group will maintain and service all DB Schenker solar power plants. We will have a single platform where all data, including comprehensive reporting and monitoring, is available. Personally and on behalf of our company, I can highly recommend Solnet as a partner. Their expert and professional approach is up-to-date and always prioritizes safety,” Liimatainen adds.
As part of its sustainability goals, DB Schenker is electrifying its transportation fleet. Having on-site solar power plants at its properties is crucial for charging these vehicles.
“We are still in the early stages of electrification and considering infrastructure development. Having our own solar power plant is a great way to generate electricity for our vehicles. We have been evaluating solar energy and battery storage solutions for charging stations. We could effectively utilize available rooftop space for this purpose,” says Marko Liimatainen.
“Sustainability is very important to us, but I also want to ensure that our solar plants are properly scaled so that we do not sell too much electricity back to the grid. In the summer, some surplus energy is fed into the grid, but it is minimal. So far, we have focused primarily on our own needs, but as battery storage technology advances, we are exploring additional opportunities. We are interested in participating in the reserve energy market and have already started a pilot battery storage project at the Viinikkala terminal, allowing us to be involved in the reserve market,” Liimatainen explains.
Although electricity prices and government subsidies influence purchasing decisions, solar energy remains highly beneficial for DB Schenker. The company also receives frequent inquiries from customers about the origin of its electricity.
“The financial benefits are clear—2 GWh per year is quite a lot, also in monetary terms. From a sustainability and brand perspective, we are a responsible logistics company for our partners and customers. Properties are a significant part of the whole picture, and our customers appreciate that we are investing in renewable energy, such as solar power. Many of our customers also fall under sustainability reporting requirements, making it essential for them to know how electricity is managed in our properties and what solutions we are implementing to reduce emissions.”
“The government has ended subsidies for solar power plants, which signals that they are viable investments even without financial support. Despite the end of subsidies, solar power plants still have a reasonable payback period relative to their lifespan. Every kilowatt generated from solar power reduces our reliance on other forms of electricity and lowers our carbon footprint,” says Marko Liimatainen.
Liimatainen emphasizes the importance of safety in solar power projects, including fire safety and electrical safety.
“Right now, the most discussed topic is safety, and it’s essential to clarify all requirements with local rescue authorities and rely on professional service providers in this field. Our equipment has performed well for the past 10 years. It’s also important to consider the placement of the power plant—not all roofs can support the weight. This should be confirmed in advance,” he concludes.