The Paderborn-based Biohaus Stiftung has once again sent a truck loaded with solar technology and mounting profiles. The systems will soon be installed at hospitals in Kremenchuk and Kharkiv. Alongside a new training workshop for solar installers in Kharkiv, an 85 kW array was recently installed at a polyclinic in Kamianets-Podilskyi.
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Residual stock and warehouse goods
Today, the foundation is in need of fresh supplies. Residual stock and as-new warehouse modules rated under 400 W have proved particularly useful, as they are effectively unsellable elsewhere. Often available at discounted prices, these panels are purchased by Biohaus Stiftung using donated funds, though direct material donations are equally welcome.
In the first months of 2025, seven trucks carrying solar equipment rolled into Ukraine, to Kharkiv, Trostianets, Kremenchuk and other locations in the east of the country. There they were received by Ukrainian installers to get the systems onto rooftops as quickly as possible.
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Winter approaching
Winter is approaching. Russian missiles are primarily targeting energy infrastructure. More trucks are heading east to bring solar equipment into the country. Logistics are supported by the European Union's Energy Support Task Force. Transport is financed by the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ).
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What is needed?
The initiator and driving force behind the relief effort is Willi Ernst, founder of the Biohaus Stiftung in Paderborn. "We primarily need backup power systems," explains the experienced solar expert. "The electrical infrastructure in Ukraine is so damaged that electricity is only available for five to six hours a day, even in regions far from the fighting, due to rationing and redistribution."
The focus is on donations and affordable sources for battery systems with corresponding hybrid inverters and mounting equipment. Biohaus Stiftung provides tax-deductible receipts for donations on request.
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Training 70 female solar installers
Willi Ernst has also found that recipients of the urgently needed solar systems often do not have experienced solar companies at hand. For most hospitals, this is completely new territory. "We need backup from experts who are available from time to time via email and phone," says Ernst. "And we need to train installers on site."
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Nordsolar becomes training campaign partner
The Nordsolar association has agreed to support these activities as a partner, providing technical advice and training solar installers. The aim is to train 70 women next year so that they can install systems independently. Most men are at the front, which is also a challenge for many solar installation companies in Ukraine.
The training campaign is supported by the Greenpeace office in Kyiv, with a Ukrainian solar company delivering on-site instruction. The initiative is also seeking supporters who can offer internship placements or serve as instructors via video conference. (HS/TF)
Anyone wishing to contribute battery storage, inverters, other solar components or funds can contact Willi Ernst at willi.ernst@biohaus-stiftung.org.
