Neuchâtel equips heritage buildings with innovative solar roof tiles

Three heritage buildings in Neuchâtel are nearing completion with 33,300 solar tiles from CSEM and Freesuns, marking significant progress in the 2050 energy transition.

Three heritage buildings in Neuchâtel are nearing completion of their renovation projects with 33,300 solar tiles developed through a collaboration between CSEM and Freesuns. This initiative marks a significant step forward in the canton’s 2050 energy transition goals.

Freesuns’ solar tiles, developed in partnership with CSEM, set a benchmark for architectural integration and renewable energy. New, more efficient solar tiles are expected to enter the market by the end of 2024, supported by Freesuns’ recent CHF 1 million fundraising. These projects illustrate the potential for technological innovation to deliver economic and environmental benefits in the renovation of historic buildings across Switzerland.

The renovations include the Collège des Parcs, the Beaux-Arts school building and the Rue A.-L. Breguet university building. These installations will generate significant amounts of energy annually, with the Collège des Parcs producing almost 150,000 kWh. The cantonal buildings will have an installed capacity of 130 kWp and 95 kWp respectively. Expected to be completed by November 2024, these projects demonstrate how historic preservation and modern energy solutions can coexist. CSEM’s Matthieu Despeisse said: “These projects show that through innovation we can combine tiles, photovoltaics, energy transition and the preservation of architectural heritage.”

Switzerland aims to be carbon neutral by 2050, with buildings accounting for over 40% of energy consumption. Energy-efficient renovations, such as those in Neuchâtel, are critical to achieving these goals. Deborah Learoyd of Freesuns noted: “We hope that these pioneering renovation projects will serve as an inspiring model for other cantons and municipalities.”