The University of Neuchâtel unveils a solar roof that merges innovation with heritage preservation

The University of Neuchâtel has inaugurated a new solar roof at its Faculty of Economics, merging state-of-the-art solar technology with heritage preservation, furthering the canton’s 2050 climate goals.

The University of Neuchâtel has inaugurated a new photovoltaic roof on its Faculty of Economics building, combining advanced solar technology with heritage preservation. Inaugurated on 29 October 2024 in the presence of Neuchâtel State Councillor Frédéric Mairy and Christophe Ballif, Director of the CSEM Photovoltaic Center, the project highlights Neuchâtel’s progressive approach to integrating renewable energy into historic architecture.

Located at Rue Abram-Louis-Breguet 2, the 1,223-square-meter roof is equipped with approximately 10,000 innovative solar tiles designed to resemble traditional grey slate. Developed by Freesuns in collaboration with CSEM, these tiles represent a breakthrough in solar technology, combining flexible design and aesthetics with architectural heritage. Their design allows for seamless coverage of the roof, mimicking the look of traditional materials while delivering high-efficiency solar power.

This initiative follows a similar project at Neuchâtel’s Collège des Parcs, where CSEM and Freesuns installed 33,300 solar tiles in early 2024, contributing to the canton’s ambitious 2050 energy goals. The renovated Faculty of Economics building is the second public building in Neuchâtel to feature these new-generation solar tiles, reinforcing the canton’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure in heritage sites.

Neuchâtel, a pioneer in solar innovation

The solar energy generated will be largely consumed on site, contributing to the university’s energy independence. In addition, the project supports the canton of Neuchâtel’s climate plan and is in line with the canton’s energy law (LCEn).

Beyond energy generation, the project underscores Neuchâtel’s long-standing role as a pioneer in solar innovation. The Faculty of Economics building once housed Switzerland’s first experimental rooftop solar sensors in 1983, making it a symbolic site for solar research and development. Ongoing solar initiatives at Neuchâtel aim to create a local energy community (CEL), enabling optimized, shared energy resources across the campus.

With plans to equip 100 public buildings with solar panels by 2050, Neuchâtel is setting the standard for integrating renewable energy into historic environments and demonstrating Switzerland’s commitment to sustainability.