Startups @ HSWT | Part 49: Siam Sun

Alexander Lang studied Management of Renewable Energies at HSWT and is now working with his company Siam Sun and his partner company AERO Solar & Automation to ensure that the benefits of sustainable solar energy can be utilised in Thailand.

How did you come up with the idea of promoting solar systems in Thailand?

Thanks to the great flexibility of the HSWT, especially the very free organisation of the internship semester, I was able to spend valuable time in Thailand during my studies and lay the foundations for the start-up. Thailand is blessed with plenty of sunshine all year round, yet solar energy only accounts for a negligible three per cent of the national electricity mix. One reason for this is the unwillingness of the Thai middle class to invest in a solar system; they often lack either the capital, the willingness to take out a solar loan or the enthusiasm for renewable energies.

How did you manage to convince people of your idea?

I then thought about whether smaller solar installations for small and medium-sized businesses (e.g. pharmacies, restaurants, spas) would be worthwhile for a PPA business model, where we finance and own the appendices and sell electricity to customers at a price that is cheaper than grid electricity. Customers are convinced much more quickly if they don't have to invest anything themselves. We can install solar panels on so many more roofs and make a contribution to the energy transition, which makes us very proud.

Who helped you in particular to set up your company?

My girlfriend Maria, who was willing to set up the company with me and who naturally brings a lot of customer confidence with her status as Miss Universe Thailand. And Rolf, who with his full support for every initiative from the very beginning, even when I was an intern in his company or now as a business partner, plays an indispensable role and with his experience not only passes on valuable knowledge and makes valuable work possible, but also gives the day-to-day work a familiar environment.

What experience or tips would you like to share with other start-ups?

In addition to the idea, it was above all the coming together of strong people who all make an indispensable contribution to the overall result in their respective fields that helped us get off the ground. That would probably be the most valuable tip I could give: Approach exciting people and consider whether the meeting could result in something new and great.

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