In the lively Amsterdam district of Nieuw-West, a familiar school building is turning heads again. Not with a new build, but through a striking transformation of its skin. De Kikker, a public facility from 2006 that houses two primary schools and a health centre, has been given a new façade — one that radiates colour and generates electricity. Behind this expressive exterior lies Belgian innovation: the solar technology was developed and manufactured by SOLTECH in Genk.

A façade that goes beyond aesthetics

When De Kikker first opened its doors in 2006, it stood out for its bold form and bright green cladding. Designed by Dok Architecten, the building became a local landmark — playful, visible, and full of character. But after nearly two decades, the façade had faded, both visually and functionally. The city of Amsterdam saw an opportunity: not just to refresh the look, but to rethink the role a façade can play.

The new design came from Solarix, a Dutch studio known for architectural solar façades. They were responsible for the colour scheme, glass textures and overall visual rhythm. The solar modules themselves? Developed and produced by SOLTECH, working behind the scenes as the project’s OEM technology partner.

Belgian precision behind a Dutch brand

“We deliver solar cell technology tailored to our clients’ designs,” says Bas van de Kreeke, CEO of SOLTECH. “In this case, we produced 507 PV modules in a wide range of dimensions — each perfectly aligned with Solarix’s façade layout. The panels carry their brand, but the technology was built here in our factory in Genk.”

SOLTECH offers its technology in a variety of ways: through its own product lines, collaborative design partnerships, or as a white-label provider for other brands. OEM manufacturing is just one of those options — where SOLTECH takes care of development and production, while the end product is marketed under the client’s name. It’s an approach that demands not only technical expertise, but deep respect for a partner’s creative vision.

Engineering in service of design

For De Kikker, that collaboration resulted in:

• 20 unique panel types, in tune with the architectural rhythm

• a textured glass finish, adding both depth and light diffusion

• full transparency when powered off, keeping the visual integrity of the façade intact

• integration of optimisers and fire-safe components, compliant with Dutch safety regulations

All modules were manufactured in Genk.

“Short lines, clear communication, and a constant back-and-forth with the design team — that’s the only way to deliver this kind of bespoke project,” says Van de Kreeke.

More than just energy

The system now delivers up to 170 kWh per day, or roughly 67,000 kWh per year — covering around 13% of the building’s total energy needs. Built-in rapid shutdown technology ensures automatic voltage drop in case of fire, fully compliant with IEC 63027:2023 for arc fault detection.

But numbers only tell part of the story. This is a façade that functions as architecture, energy infrastructure, and public expression — an invitation to engage with sustainability, creativity, and the urban fabric.

OEM+ as a foundation for the future

For SOLTECH, De Kikker is a showcase of what’s possible when design, engineering and ambition come together. No rooftop panels in sight — just clean, integrated solar glass that supports the architectural story instead of competing with it. No off-the-shelf solutions, but made-to-measure modules that match the rhythm, colour and character of a building.

“In many of our projects, our name doesn’t appear on the product — and that’s perfectly fine,” concludes Van de Kreeke.
“What matters is that our technology works, complements the design, and plays its part in a bigger vision.”