O₂ Surftown MUC Operates with Up to 90 Percent Solar Energy

(eap) The O₂ SURFTOWN MUC surf park, which opened in summer 2024 as the world’s first surf park to feature “Endless Surf” wave pool technology, now covers up to 90 percent of its total electricity demand via a neighbouring solar hybrid power plant. In addition to powering the large wave pool – supplied by WhiteWater West – the system also supplies energy to on-site gastronomy outlets, EV charging stations and other technical infrastructure.

The adjacent solar facility, operated by VISPIRON, consists of around 18,000 solar panels and has a capacity of 10,500 kWp, generating approximately 11 gigawatt hours of electricity annually. Battery modules with a total capacity of 14 MWh are used to store surplus energy. According to the surf park’s operator, an intelligent load management system allows for the real-time use of solar power, with surplus energy stored for use during evening hours.

“Our waves are powered by up to 90 percent solar energy. This not only improves our CO₂ footprint but also demonstrates how sustainable energy supply and leisure experiences can be intelligently combined,” says Jonas Boehm-Tettelbach, Chief Operations Manager of O₂ SURFTOWN MUC, which forms the centrepiece of a new work-life district in Hallbergmoos, near Munich Airport.

The park’s broader sustainability concept also includes geothermal-based heating and cooling, as well as a closed loop water management system with multi-stage filtration. “We minimise our footprint and environmental impact while creating experiences that inspire people. The sun powers our waves,” adds Chris Boehm-Tettelbach, Founder and CEO of Surftown.

Find out more about O₂ SURFTOWN MUC and its Endless Surf wave pool system in the cover story of EAP issue 4/2024. ■