At Ecorus, our people are the heart of everything we do. In this series, we shine a spotlight on our Ecorians: the pioneers, thinkers, and doers working every day to create a more sustainable world. Their stories offer a behind-the-scenes look at how we tackle challenges, drive innovation, and create impact. It’s a testament to how We Know How comes to life, bringing us closer to a future powered entirely by clean, renewable energy.
Willem Boekhoven’s journey at Ecorus began with an open application. After a management traineeship at Engie and working at a spinoff of Engie focused on energy data, he was eager to continue in sustainability. “There was no vacancy at the time, but after an extensive conversation with Philippe Vanhoef, he saw potential in me for project development. We decided to try it out with a six-month contract, and now we’re five years further.”
A passion for sustainability
Willem’s drive for sustainability started early. “I spent a lot of time in nature as a kid -camping, hiking, exploring”, he recalls. The turning point came during his studies at TU Eindhoven when he watched An Inconvenient Truth, the documentary by Al Gore. “That was a wake-up call. It made me realize I wanted to contribute to the energy transition.”
After earning his degree in Mechanical Engineering, Willem faced a choice: Control Systems or sustainable energy technology. He chose the latter and completed a master’s in Sustainable Energy Technology. His thesis research explored using plasma to convert CO2 and water into fuel. “It was cutting-edge”, he admits. Unsure whether to pursue research, engineering, or management, a traineeship at Engie broadened his perspective, ultimately leading him to Ecorus.
Developing impactful solar projects
Willem’s role as a project developer evolved quickly. “At first, I developed projects no one else wanted to take on”, he jokes. “It was tough, but I learned a lot.”
His work extends beyond technical design to stakeholder management, financial structuring, and commercial strategy. “Project development means aligning all moving parts – technical feasibility, contracts, financing, and client needs – to make a project viable from every angle.”
One of the biggest shifts Willem has seen is how clients approach solar investments. “Initially, we focused on lease concepts where Ecorus would invest in and manage the project. Now, companies want to invest in their own solar projects. We’ve adapted by developing and building directly for clients like Prologis and GLP.”
Ecorus’ ability to bridge technical expertise with financial insight has made it a leader in logistics and industrial real estate solar energy development. “We understand what our clients need to make a solid business case. That’s why they trust us.”
Shaping the future of renewable energy
As Head of Development, Willem oversees renewable energy systems, including solar (PV), battery energy storage (BESS), charging infrastructure, and generation solutions for logistics and industrial real estate clients across Europe. His role blends strategic vision, technical expertise, and commercial insight to keep Ecorus at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions.
“The logistics and industrial real estate sector is evolving beyond just rooftop solar”, Willem explains. “As more companies electrify their fleets and seek energy resilience, we see opportunities in on and offsite PPA’s, charging infrastructure, battery storage, and hybrid solutions. With our strong client relationships, we can expand our offerings to provide a more integrated approach.”
A culture of collaboration and leadership
This evolution is made possible by the collaborative culture at Ecorus, where leadership fosters accessibility and empowerment.
Willem values the open and approachable management style. “The leadership team is incredibly accessible. Everyone is encouraged to bring their own ideas and challenge the status quo. That makes Ecorus a great place to work.”
He also appreciates the balance of idealism and entrepreneurship that drives the company. “Some colleagues are here because they want to make a real impact. Others thrive on the business side of the industry. It’s a great combination that keeps us moving forward.”
Looking ahead: driving solar innovation
For Willem, working at Ecorus is about shaping the future of energy. “Every morning, I wake up knowing that I’m contributing to something bigger than myself. Even on the toughest days, that keeps me going.”
As the energy landscape evolves, so does Willem’s role. With new challenges like grid congestion, electrification, and expanding renewable solutions, he is focused on keeping Ecorus ahead of the curve. Whether developing large-scale solar projects, exploring smart energy solutions, or mentoring the next generation of developers, Willem remains committed to accelerating the energy transition in the most impactful way possible.
With his team growing, new opportunities emerging, and innovation at the core of everything he does, one thing is certain: his journey at Ecorus is far from over.
Would you like to contribute to a sustainable future, with innovation and collaboration at its core? Explore our job openings in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany and let’s build a cleaner, brighter future together.
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