First removable solar power facility installed on Swiss railway tracks in Neuchâtel, aiming to power trains with renewable energy generated between rails.
"In the long term, our ambition is to produce energy between the rails and re-inject it into the traction current of the trains so that it is practically 100% self-propelled"
Switzerland has marked a significant milestone in renewable energy innovation with the inauguration of its first removable solar power facility installed on railway tracks in Neuchâtel. This groundbreaking project, spearheaded by Vaud-based start-up Sun-Ways, represents a revolutionary approach to utilizing existing infrastructure for sustainable energy generation. The installation, which places photovoltaic panels between railway tracks, aims to power trains directly with renewable energy, marking a world-first in sustainable transportation infrastructure.
The innovative system employs a specialized train from Scheuchzer for installation, capable of laying nearly 1,000 square meters of solar panels in just hours. The pilot project covers 100 linear metres of a TransN line, featuring 48 solar panels with secured electrical connections. A notable technical feature includes an integrated cleaning system with cylindrical brushes attached to trains, ensuring optimal panel performance. This mechanical installation approach significantly reduces both installation time and costs, making it a viable solution for large-scale implementation.
The project's environmental implications are substantial, with Switzerland's 5,000 kilometers of railway tracks offering potential for up to 2.5 million solar panels. This innovative approach to renewable energy generation maximizes existing infrastructure while minimizing additional land use. The system's design allows trains to run during peak solar production hours, optimizing energy generation and consumption patterns. This alignment between energy production and transportation needs represents a significant step toward sustainable public transport systems.
This pioneering project reinforces Switzerland's position as a leader in sustainable innovation and clean technology. The successful implementation in Neuchâtel serves as a proof of concept for potential global adaptation, demonstrating Swiss expertise in combining infrastructure efficiency with environmental responsibility. Sun-Ways' vision of worldwide implementation highlights Switzerland's role in developing scalable solutions for global environmental challenges. The project has garnered significant attention for its practical approach to renewable energy integration in existing transportation infrastructure.