Schenker and Voltan towards more climate-friendly logistics.

DB Schenker is a major global logistics provider with ambitious environmental objectives. As part of these commitments, Schenker Oy has pledged to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions in Finland while simultaneously improving the energy efficiency of its properties. A strong example of this strategy is the company’s newly developed modern and environmentally sustainable logistics terminal in Roves, Seinäjoki.

The approximately 6,000 m² terminal is scheduled to open in early 2025. Once completed, it will serve DB Schenker’s logistics operations in the Ostrobothnia region with enhanced efficiency. The energy solutions selected for the project demonstrate that even large and complex infrastructure can operate sustainably, delivering measurable benefits not only for the business but also for the environment.

It is therefore well justified to say that this is not merely a logistics facility, but a future-oriented, sustainability-driven operating environment.

Why Voltan – More Than an Energy Provider

A key element in reducing the environmental impact of the Seinäjoki terminal is the geothermal heating system implemented for the property. In this project, DB Schenker partnered with Voltan Lähienergia.

Voltan’s service-based operating model, for which the company is particularly well known, makes the adoption of renewable energy solutions both simple and cost-efficient for customers. The geothermal system significantly reduces emissions compared to conventional heating alternatives.

Under this partnership, Voltan assumes responsibility for the entire lifecycle of the geothermal solution — from system design and construction of the energy well field to installation, servicing, and long-term maintenance. This enables DB Schenker to focus fully on its core business operations, while Voltan ensures that energy production remains reliable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.

According to Marko Liimatainen, who oversees the construction of the project, collaboration with Voltan during the implementation phase has been excellent. The client’s objectives and requirements were carefully considered throughout both the design and execution stages. The separately procured geothermal system was successfully integrated into the overall construction process, resulting in a high-quality outcome.

DB Schenker selected Voltan as its long-term energy partner with confidence in receiving dependable, environmentally friendly heating energy without the need for its own involvement in system ownership or maintenance.

Reliable Heating and Cooling Without Operational Burden

When the terminal began producing heating and cooling energy through geothermal technology in autumn 2024, the milestone represented the outcome of a carefully structured collaboration.

Voltan’s long-term partnership model provides customers with clear advantages:

✔ No unexpected costs
✔ No complex system management requirements
✔ Full operational responsibility assumed by Voltan

Voltan covers not only system maintenance but also electricity consumption and potential equipment upgrades throughout the contract period.

The energy well field drilling was carried out by Rototec Oy during summer 2024, while system installation is performed by Lem-Kem Oy. This coordinated cooperation ensures that DB Schenker’s logistics centre operates efficiently from day one.

Energy-Efficient Cooling Through Ground Energy

In addition to geothermal heating, Voltan Lähienergia provides a cooling solution utilising the naturally stored thermal energy of the ground. This technology is particularly valuable for large logistics facilities, where precise temperature control is essential for stored goods.

Ground-based cooling reduces the energy demand of traditional mechanical cooling systems, generating additional cost savings while further lowering the property’s carbon footprint.

The Seinäjoki terminal has been designed to maximise overall energy efficiency, with surplus heat intelligently recycled within the building. The resulting system is not only environmentally responsible but also technically optimised to meet the evolving demands of modern logistics operations.

Building a Sustainable Future Together

For Voltan, DB Schenker represents a highly valued partner whose sustainability objectives closely align with Voltan’s core values.

The collaboration on the Seinäjoki terminal project extends beyond a purely technical solution. It reflects a shared vision and a clear commitment by both parties toward a more sustainable future. Voltan’s geothermal service model and DB Schenker’s strategic decarbonisation targets form a mutually reinforcing partnership.

This project marks a significant step forward in the adoption of renewable energy solutions within large-scale logistics developments and serves as a model for future sustainability-driven projects.

Further Information on the Project and Geothermal Heating as a Service:

Miikka Lemmetty
Voltan Lähienergia

Marko Liimatainen
Schenker Oy