Solar car park turns a cost centre into a profitable energy solution for What's Cooking

From parking space to a strategic energy asset

Ter Beke had extensive parking facilities that were not generating any value. At the same time, energy costs were rising and sustainability ambitions were becoming increasingly important. The challenge was clear: how do you combine renewable energy generation, cost control and employee comfort without requiring significant capital investment or adding operational complexity?

For Ter Beke, the answer lay in making smart use of existing infrastructure. Its car park offered significant potential, but implementing a large-scale solar solution required expertise, financing and a carefully structured approach.

A smart investment without upfront capital through an ESCO model

Through an ESCO (Energy Service Company) model, a solar car park was realised without any upfront capital investment from Ter Beke. Encon managed the entire process, from design and financing to installation, operation and maintenance.

The carport structure was equipped with solar panels that generate renewable electricity on-site. Thanks to the ESCO model, Ter Beke only pays for the energy it consumes at a predictable and competitive price. This eliminates the need for substantial upfront investment while reducing financial risk and delivering immediate sustainability benefits.

This approach perfectly illustrates what Delivering Profitable Sustainability means in practice: sustainability that not only benefits the environment, but also creates direct business value.

Measurable impact on costs, CO₂ emissions and corporate reputation

The solar car park not only generates renewable electricity but also contributes to a structural reduction in energy costs. By producing energy locally, Ter Beke has become less dependent on volatile energy markets while increasing its energy resilience.

In addition, the project significantly reduces CO₂ emissions, supporting the company’s sustainability objectives and reporting requirements. At the same time, covered parking spaces improve comfort and convenience for employees and visitors alike.

The results:

• Lower and more predictable energy costs
• No upfront capital investment required
• Reduced CO₂ emissions
• A stronger sustainability profile and competitive position

Sustainability thus becomes a strategic lever for both efficiency and profitability. With the right approach, underutilised space can be transformed into a long-term asset that delivers value from day one.