Solar generation didn't always align with demand
Markus & Markus produces stroopwafels in Waddinxveen and operates a well-performing rooftop PV installation. While generation was high, it did not always coincide with demand on the production floor. As a result, part of the solar energy was fed back to the grid, while electricity still had to be purchased at other times.
At the same time, internal energy demand fluctuated, with peaks increasing overall energy costs. With increasing volatility in electricity prices, this created a growing mismatch between when energy was available and when it was needed.
Markus & Markus was looking for a way to better use its own generation, reduce peak demand and gain more control over its energy use as part of a broader step towards electrification and decarbonisation.
Storing solar energy and deploying it when it’s most effective.
The starting point was the existing solar installation. Together with our partner Ecopowercell, Markus & Markus extended the on-site energy system with storage, while Tibo EMS coordinates generation, consumption and grid use in real time. In December 2025, Ecopowercell installed an RCT Power CESS 261 at the production site in Waddinxveen. The complete system consists of:
- The existing rooftop solar PV installation
- Battery system: 233 kWh / 100 kW with integrated BMS
- EMS for energy management and control
Solar energy that isn’t used directly in production goes into the battery. When the return is highest, financially or operationally, that energy is fed back into the production process. Tibo EMS plans 48 hours ahead and adjusts every five minutes based on prices, weather forecasts, generation and demand.
20,000 kWh more of own solar energy per year
Markus & Markus now uses around 20,000 kWh more of its own solar energy each year. CO₂ emissions drop by roughly 8,000 kg per year.
“We now use 20,000 kWh more of our own solar energy every year. That is equivalent to the consumption of six households, and the 8,000 kg CO₂ reduction is comparable to the annual uptake of 400 trees.” — Markus & Markus
In day-to-day operations, this means:
- Higher utilisation of on-site PV generation
- Lower energy costs through greater self-consumption
- A more stable load profile with fewer peaks
- A system that leaves room for further steps in decarbonisation
“We now use 20,000 kWh more of our own solar energy every year. That is equivalent to the consumption of six households, and the 8,000 kg CO₂ reduction is comparable to the annual uptake of 400 trees.”
— Markus & Markus
About Markus & Markus
Markus & Markus is a stroopwafel producer based in Waddinxveen, the Netherlands, operating in the production and industry sector. The company is working on a sustainability roadmap built around its own generation, storage and smart control.
About Ecopowercell
Ecopowercell designs and installs energy storage systems for industrial and commercial sites. The company supports projects from advice and design through installation and monitoring, and works with LFP technology and RPEMS to control batteries, generation and consumption.
