Continuing To Grow With Our Ankara Baskent Oiz Factory
SMT Enerji, which has been operating in the solar energy sector in Gaziantep since 2016 with 16 years of domestic and overseas experience in the sector, continues to achieve its growth targets by tripling its production capacity in the field of steel and aluminum construction with its new factory of 12 thousand square meters, which is under construction in Ankara Baskent OIZ.
We discussed the company’s activities, target markets, exports, and the industry with Abdurrazzak Yildiz, CEO of SMT Enerji, who emphasized that Türkiye has an important solar energy potential due to its geographical location.
Could you tell us a bit about SMT Enerji?
Since 2016, we have been producing carrier mounting systems in the solar energy sector in Gaziantep. To date, we have successfully completed a total of 1384 ground and roof projects, contributing to a production of 814 MW in mounting systems. In ground projects, we used steel, while in roof projects, we utilized aluminum. We have also undertaken the mechanical assembly of approximately 186 MW from these projects. We design, manufacture and install solar energy carrier systems in the renewable energy sector. Currently, our annual production capacity is 200 MW. When our factory, which is under construction in Ankara Baskent OIZ, becomes operational within a year, our annual production capacity will triple, reaching 3,500 tons of aluminum and 10,000 tons of steel production. In the near future, we will take our place among the few companies in the industry capable of producing both steel and aluminum solar energy mounting systems.
Despite the global challenges we face, we continue to supply products to all of Türkiye. With successful strategies and adaptable plans in response to changing conditions, we also continue to export to 10 countries in Europe and the Balkans. Through our sales office in Germany, we export to European countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Macedonia, and Romania.
We have achieved our export targets for 2023, and we will continue our activities with our export-oriented growth target as of 2024.
Do you only work on a project basis?
We usually work on a project basis. We provide separate design and engineering services for each region with geographical differences. For roof projects, where there is similarity and standardization, 80% of aluminum construction is based on mass production. However, considering regional snow and wind loads, as well as ground values, for steel designs requiring static calculations, we manage the entire process on a project basis.
We have a specialized and experienced technical team. Our work in solar energy carrier mounting systems covers a wide range of activities, from custom project design to collaborative project design, from small scale to large scale implementation.
We are proud to see the signature of SMT Enerji on projects that create a livable world and add value to the region with the principle of sustainability.
How do you view the implementation of renewable energy systems in areas where direct consumption is involved?
It makes the most sense for energy to be generated where it is actually consumed because the infrastructure work required for transporting energy implies a high investment cost. Moreover, the energy loss incurred when transferring energy from one place to another is a significant cost. Therefore, local production where consumption takes place is of great importance. In Europe, especially in individual rooftops, the majority of investments are made in the region where the energy is consumed. However, for facilities that need to be installed in different places depending on the amount of consumption, we support investors with the most suitable and profitable recommendations.
So, is there direct approval for individuals in our country to generate their own energy?
Currently, approval is granted for residential subscriber groups up to 25 kW. Investors can sell the energy they produce individually without consumption. In this regard, investors are supported by being exempt from income tax.
Do you face issues with the availability of skilled workforce?
Unfortunately, today we find ourselves in a position where we have to question how well the young graduates from universities can apply the qualifications related to the titles in front of their names. Besides, I believe that education alone is not sufficient, and there is a need to combine academic knowledge with the experience gained in the field. I think our shortage of skilled workforce arises for these and similar reasons.
Finally, could you share your goals for 2024?
Despite the challenging days, we are completing the year 2023 by achieving our goals. In 2024, we aim to increase our market share in the industry, primarily with an export-focused growth strategy, in addition to our presence in the Turkish market. SMT Enerji will continue to work on the basis of 100% customer satisfaction within the framework of our respect for people, nature and the environment.
BUSINESSNEWS BUSINESS WORLD MAGAZINE | 2024
