On 17 March 2026, Raphael Thiessen, Key Account Manager for Brownfield & Site Development at SIERA, presented practical strategies and experiences for energy transformation in logistics real estate as part of the SIERA Impact Webinar Series.
The event provided in-depth insights into the integration of renewable energy, technical site assessments, and the development of structured transformation pathways. Its goal was to enable owners, investors, and facility managers to sustainably decarbonize their buildings while ensuring operational reliability.
Challenges of Decarbonizing Logistics Buildings
Energy transformation presents operators of logistics buildings with complex challenges:
1. Fragmented and inconsistent technical data
Many existing buildings have outdated or incomplete information regarding transformers, switchgear, and heating systems. Without a consolidated data foundation, it is difficult to assess transformation potential.
2. Limited electrical infrastructure
The transition from gas-based heating systems to heat pump technology significantly increases electricity demand. In many properties, the existing infrastructure is insufficient to ensure full electrification, which can lead to overloads or costly grid upgrades.
3. Complexity in transforming fossil-fuel systems
Replacing existing heating systems requires not only the exchange of equipment but also a reassessment of building structure, heating load characteristics, and operational patterns. A structured transformation pathway is essential to implement the transition efficiently and sustainably.
SIERA Solutions: Practical Approaches for Successful Energy Transformation
SIERA presented practical, hands-on strategies to help owners and investors implement decarbonization efficiently:
Structured Technical Site Assessments
SIERA conducts standardized data collection for existing and new-build properties. This consolidates information on electricity, gas, and water consumption, heating systems, and transformer capacities.
Benefits for Owners:
- Reliable basis for investment decisions
- Identification of infrastructure reserves and bottlenecks
- Prioritization of retrofit measures across multiple properties
Feasibility Studies for Transformation Pathways
For selected properties, SIERA develops detailed feasibility studies. These analyze different system configurations and the necessary adjustments to the electrical infrastructure to sustainably integrate heat pump solutions.
Integration of Renewable Energy
New-build and existing logistics properties benefit from a combined approach including:
- Geothermal energy for low-emission heat supply
- Rooftop photovoltaics to utilize renewable electricity on-site
- Electrification through heat pumps, optimized for the building profile
These measures make it possible to replace fossil-based heating systems with sustainable, low-emission technologies.
Positive Impacts of the SIERA Approaches
The SIERA strategies create measurable benefits:
- Infrastructure transparency: Clear overview of capacities and reserves
- Reduced technical uncertainty: Decision-making confidence for transformation measures
- Portfolio-based prioritization: Investments are targeted where they achieve the greatest impact
- Structured transformation pathways: From gas operation to renewable heat supply
Visualization Suggestion
For the web version, you can include a table or infographic to clearly present challenges, solutions, and results.
| Challenges | SIERA Solution | Results |
| Inconsistent data | Standardized site assessments | Reliable basis for decisions |
| Limited infrastructure | Feasibility studies & electrical analysis | Optimized electrification |
| Gas-based systems | Transition to heat pumps & renewable energy | Sustainable energy supply |
Insights for Raphael Thiessen
In his keynote, Raphael Thiessen emphasized that early planning is crucial. The integration of renewable energy should already be considered during project planning to achieve maximum efficiency and minimal operational constraints.
He also highlighted that structured data analyses and feasibility studies form the foundation for successful decarbonization. Without these analytical foundations, a reliable implementation is not possible.
About SIERA
The SIERA Alliance unites 14 engineering companies into an integrated environmental engineering ecosystem. With expertise in infrastructure, climate, circular economy, and impact technologies, SIERA follows the motto: “Engineering for a Better Tomorrow.”
This comprehensive portfolio enables SIERA to develop sustainable solutions – from low-emission logistics buildings to urban infrastructure projects and resource-efficient water management.
Curious to learn more?
Sign up for our upcoming SIERA Impact Webinars and learn how SIERA member companies implement practical strategies in projects.
Also, explore our upcoming events to connect with experts and gain valuable insights into sustainable infrastructure and environmental solutions.
