How ideas become concrete projects—and why commitment, technology, and nature go hand in hand in hep solar’s project development.
Clean energy from our region
Today we’re talking with Benjamin Brasch from hep solar’s project development team about the Zimmerberg and Buckeläcker solar projects, which he and his colleagues are currently overseeing. Benjamin, can you give us a brief overview? Where are the projects located, and what makes them unique?
Both projects are located within the city limits of Eppingen, in Baden-Württemberg—not far from our headquarters in Güglingen. Zimmerberg borders an industrial area, while Buckeläcker is situated on the outskirts of Adelshofen. Together, the two sites cover an area of approximately 40 hectares and have a capacity of just under 50 megawatts peak. What’s particularly exciting is that both sites have ideal grid connections—and we plan to combine them with so-called green energy storage systems.
What are green energy storage systems, and why are they part of these projects?
Green energy storage systems are energy storage devices that store only electricity generated from renewable sources and release it at a later time. In contrast, gray energy storage systems can also temporarily store “gray electricity”—that is, electricity from fossil fuel sources or the public grid. For Zimmerberg and Buckeläcker, we rely on green energy storage systems, which we combine with the photovoltaic systems. This allows us to efficiently control the feed-in of the solar power produced.
How did hep solar acquire the project sites?
The city of Eppingen had a clear desire to play an active role in shaping the energy transition locally. We therefore worked with property owners to identify suitable sites and found two that met the criteria. It helped that we are a local company and are well known to the city. In the end, three projects were approved—two of which are ours.
What role does hep solar play—and who will ultimately operate the plants?
We are involved in every phase of the project—from the initial site selection to the completed solar park. This means we develop the site, plan the grid connection, and handle the marketing of the electricity. During the construction phase, we manage on-site coordination. Once the plants are connected to the grid, we also take responsibility for technical and commercial operations management—that is, maintenance, repairs, and the ongoing organization and billing of plant operations. Importantly, we remain closely involved in every case because we support the projects from the very beginning and know them best.
The projects are currently in the final phase of urban planning. What does that mean, specifically?
We are currently in the so-called public comment period. This is the phase during which citizens, government agencies, and other interested parties can submit their comments on the plans. This feedback will then be reviewed and incorporated as appropriate. Once the municipal council adopts the resolution, the zoning plan becomes legally binding—and construction may then begin.
What steps have you taken so far?
Before it gets to that point, projects undergo numerous assessments: species protection reviews, environmental impact studies, soil surveys, glare assessments, and much more. For example, we’ve commissioned surveys of breeding birds, planned compensation areas, and developed plans for nature-friendly design—including planting hedges and using sheep for grazing. This shows just how much work goes into a project even before construction actually begins.
Sounds like a lot of work—a curse or a blessing?
Both. Of course, it requires a lot of effort, but that is precisely what ensures quality and acceptance. These processes protect the environment and biodiversity—and they promote transparency. It is important to us that the energy transition succeeds locally through a collective effort.
Assuming everything goes according to plan, when could construction begin?
If the resolution on the bylaws is passed in early 2026, we will begin construction on Zimmerberg immediately. Buckeläcker is expected to follow at the end of the first quarter or the beginning of the second quarter of 2026.
What are the biggest challenges in solar projects?
Coordination. From property owners to government agencies to consultants—a project like this can only succeed through collaboration. Another challenge is grid access. Capacity is limited, but we’re lucky in Eppingen: the connections are right nearby.
What would surprise someone who has never been involved in project development?
It’s all so complex. We navigate the realms of technology, the environment, financing, and communication—which is far more than just “setting up a few modules.” It is precisely this diversity that makes every day different and requires a high degree of flexibility and organization.
What personally motivates you about your job?
What motivates me is that I can really make a difference at hep solar. Our projects take shape day by day—and in the end, you can literally see the results of your work standing in the landscape. That feeling of creating something tangible as a team and actively helping to shape the future of energy is amazing.
And when might the first solar power start flowing in Eppingen?
The Zimmerberg project is scheduled for mid-2026, with Buckeläcker to follow in the fall. Together, the two projects will supply several thousand households with green electricity and make a significant contribution to greater regional energy independence.