Faster Time to Market for dhp After Implementing Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Automation Expert
Transforming Solar Roof Automation in Industrial Applications
Schneider Electric, in partnership with system integrator Baffy AG, has enabled dhp Technology AG to revolutionize its HORIZON solar roof solutions. By integrating EcoStruxure Automation Expert (EAE), dhp has cut commissioning times by 50%, enhancing its competitiveness in the retractable roof and skylight market, which analysts expect to reach $1.3 billion by 2033. This achievement demonstrates the tangible benefits of software-defined industrial automation for renewable energy infrastructure.
Modular Solar Roofs Deliver Scalable and Reliable Energy
dhp Technology’s solar roofs provide lightweight, modular designs that adapt to growing energy demands. These systems automatically retract during extreme weather, such as hail or snow, protecting equipment and ensuring long-term reliability. In addition, these flexible solutions support water treatment plants, logistics hubs, and parking facilities, highlighting how industrial automation can optimize energy efficiency while enhancing operational resilience.
Open Automation Increases Flexibility and Reduces Complexity
Schneider Electric’s open, software-defined approach allows dhp to select the technology that best suits its business goals, regardless of hardware vendor. EAE decouples software from hardware, enabling seamless integration across industrial control systems, including PLCs and DCS. As a result, dhp minimizes engineering complexity, accelerates time to market, and maintains the freedom to scale operations as needed—key factors for companies pursuing modern factory automation strategies.
Streamlined Operations with Reduced Commissioning Effort
Gian Andri Diem, CEO of dhp Technology, emphasizes that EAE allows on-site technicians to manage automated solar roof systems independently. “We’ve halved commissioning times and reduced system complexity,” Diem notes. “This agility helps us respond to dynamic operational challenges while delivering higher value to our clients.” This hands-on approach showcases the real-world advantages of combining industrial automation expertise with renewable energy technologies.
Plug-and-Play Adaptability for Long-Term Reliability
Martin Baffy of Baffy AG highlights EAE’s adaptability compared to traditional control systems. “When a controller memory issue arose, plug-and-play technology enabled an effortless replacement,” he explains. Such flexibility ensures dhp retains vendor independence, a crucial consideration for companies deploying scalable industrial automation solutions across multiple facilities.
Software-Defined Automation: The Future of Industrial Control
As the first open, software-defined automation platform, EAE offers unmatched agility and end-to-end visibility. It empowers engineers to innovate faster, ensures operational resilience, and supports seamless integration with advanced devices like Harmony P6 industrial PCs and Modicon M262 dPAC. This approach illustrates a growing industry trend: decoupling software from hardware enables faster innovation while reducing operational risk in factory automation.
Practical Implications and Industry Insights
The dhp case underscores the strategic importance of software-defined industrial automation. By integrating open control systems, companies can accelerate deployment, reduce operational complexity, and maintain vendor flexibility. From an industrial perspective, adopting solutions like EAE is particularly valuable in energy-intensive environments, where uptime and adaptability directly affect ROI.
Application Scenarios
- Solar-powered water treatment plants requiring automated roof retraction during storms.
- Logistics hubs optimizing energy generation without disrupting facility operations.
- Parking structures with modular solar panels that adapt to fluctuating sunlight and weather conditions.
- Integration of PLCs, DCS, and advanced industrial PCs for smart energy management.
