By Astrid Helene Mortensen and Nelly Sander, AAU Communication and Public Affairs
Photo: MikMa

"In the beginning, it wasn’t like I was walking around thinking I wanted to become self-employed. But with my education from AAU Energy, I suddenly became aware within a few years that there were some unmet needs," says Mike Dahl Giversen, AAU alum and CEO of the company MikMa.

A Solar Panel System in Tow

Mike Dahl Giversen worked as an Industrial Boiler Manager for Alfa Laval in China. When he returned to Denmark after three years, he actually brought a solar panel system in his moving container. Back in 2020, getting such a system installed in Denmark was no straightforward task. At the time, it required hiring a consultant, which was both time-consuming and expensive for customers and companies alike.

"I had been in touch with some companies offering solar panels, and it was very expensive. But the solution I put together myself was much cheaper compared to the alternatives available," he explains.

MikMa differentiates itself from other solar panel companies by offering a fully digitized purchasing experience. Customers can easily configure and order their solar panel systems online. This model proved especially successful during the energy crisis, when demand for solar panels rose significantly.

From Aalborg University to MikMa

Mike has a strong connection to Aalborg University, where he studied from 2009 to 2017.

"There has always been a really strong relationship between the university and businesses. I mentioned Alfa Laval, which was the company I worked for before starting my own business. It was actually a company where I interned, and I found it through some instructors who had previously worked there," he explains.

The education and practical experience provided him with essential skills in process optimization and energy, which later became the foundation for MikMa's innovative approach to selling solar panel systems.

Creating Jobs in Northern Jutland

One of the most remarkable outcomes of MikMa's growth is the creation of jobs in Northern Jutland. Mike takes pride in seeing his employees thrive, which is evidence of the company's positive impact on the local community. Today, MikMa employs 12 staff members working in sales, design, and project planning of solar panel systems.

"What I’m most proud of is when I drive to work in the morning and see all the cars parked out front," he shares.

Future Collaboration

Although MikMa has yet to establish a formal partnership with AAU Energy, Mike sees potential. Involving AAU students in projects could foster a mutually beneficial collaboration, where students gain hands-on experience, and MikMa benefits from fresh knowledge and innovative solutions.