In a pioneering move, Switzerland is embracing sustainability in its transportation sector through a unique initiative by the Swiss startup Sun-Ways. This project involves the integration of removable solar panels into the railway infrastructure, marking a significant leap towards renewable energy usage in public transport systems.
Project Inception and Objectives
With the approval from Switzerland’s Federal Office of Transport (FOT), Sun-Ways is set to implement its pilot project on a 100-meter stretch of railway in Neuchâtel. This is the first time such technology is being tested in Switzerland, setting a precedent for future green energy solutions in railway systems worldwide.
The main objective of the project is to harness solar energy through strategically placed panels between the tracks. This not only optimizes unused space but also contributes to the canton’s energy supply without interfering with railway operations.
Technical Innovations and Setup
Sun-Ways has equipped the system with 48 high-efficiency solar panels, each producing 380 watts, achieving a total capacity of 18 kW. The design facilitates easy installation and removal of the panels, which is essential to maintain railway functionality without interruptions. For the mechanical installation and removal of these panels, a specialized railway machine from Scheuchzer SA is in use, capable of handling up to 1,000 m² of solar panels per day.
The budget for the pilot stands at CHF585,000 ($681,000). This total includes the costs for the solar panels, integration into the existing electrical infrastructure, and also additional safety and efficiency testing.