Switzerland puts Sun-Ways’ removable solar technology on the rails
Cleantech
9 October 2024
The success of Sun-Ways’ trials could significantly boost the use of solar energy on a global scale, with the potential to produce vast amounts of renewable energy by repurposing existing railway networks. | © Sun-Ways
Switzerland’s Federal Office of Transport (FOT) has authorized the installation of the country’s first removable solar power plant between railway tracks, paving the way for a series of pilot projects both in Switzerland and abroad.
After a comprehensive ten-month review, the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT) has given the go-ahead for the installation of Sun-Ways’ innovative solar panels between the rails of the Swiss railway system. This technology, developed by Vaud-based Sun-Ways is designed to optimize unused space between the tracks without interfering with train operations or maintenance activities. The panels are removable and can be installed manually or mechanically using a machine developed by Scheuchzer SA, which is capable of installing up to 1,000 m² of panels per day.
The pilot project, which is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2025, will take place in the canton of Neuchâtel, in partnership with the public transport operator transN and the electricity supplier Viteos. This project is part of Sun-Ways’ broader vision to expand solar energy production using existing rail infrastructure. This initiative builds on previous work by Sun-Ways, which launched a pilot project in Neuchâtel in 2023.
Initially, the FOT was reluctant to approve the project, citing a lack of technical references. However, independent assessments by experts from HEIG-VD and the engineering firm GESTE strengthened the project’s safety and technical documentation. These evaluations led to the approval, which includes ongoing tests and measurements to ensure no adverse impact on the railway infrastructure.
Beyond Switzerland, Sun-Ways is expanding its reach internationally. Pilot projects are being developed with the SNCF in France, and discussions are underway in countries such as Spain, Romania, South Korea, and even as far away as China and the United States. The start-up has won several innovation awards, including those from the Powr Earth Foundation and the Equans Group in France.
