The Potential of Utilizing Public Infrastructure for Solar Energy Generation
Solar energy production is most easily achieved on rooftops. However, outdoor solar panels often face opposition, whether in the Alps or in the Midlands. A third option is to utilize existing infrastructure for this purpose.
Opportunities and Challenges of Solar Energy Utilization
Public infrastructure, including transportation facilities, offers significant potential for solar energy generation. The Swiss Federal Office of Roads (Astra) estimates that the potential of noise barriers along its own transport routes exceeds 100 gigawatt-hours per year, with about 55 GWh coming from national roads and slightly less from rail lines. Additionally, usable areas on platform roofs, train stations, rest areas, and above parking lots contribute to this potential.
While Astra intends to utilize some noise barriers for solar energy production, legal restrictions limit the use of the generated electricity for internal purposes only, such as tunnel operations. To leverage the untapped potential, Astra publicly auctioned 350 noise barriers nationwide a year ago to allow third parties to harness solar energy. Two photovoltaic (PV) systems have now been approved for installation along the Oberland Motorway (A 15) in Wangen-Brüttisellen, making them the first privately-developed solar installations under this program in Switzerland.
Partnerships and Technical Considerations
Lima Solar AG in Wil (SG) secured the contract for the noise barriers in the cantons of Zurich and Schaffhausen through a consortium with partners such as the Austrian Institute of Technology, Focus Energie in Freiburg im Breisgau, and the Zindel Group in Chur. Collaboration with the Astra is critical for accessing installation sites, as safety measures and detailed coordination are essential.
Selecting suitable, non-glare panels was a challenge for the Wangen-Brüttisellen installation, requiring an extensive 85-page assessment. Each noise barrier presents unique characteristics, making PV retrofitting complex and time-consuming. Despite initial delays in project planning, Astra’s approval framework now streamlines the process for future third-party PV installations along Swiss national roads.
Commercialization and Expansion
Redirecting and marketing electricity from noise barriers poses logistical and pricing challenges, as energy prices fluctuate. Lima Solar aims to offer the generated power to nearby businesses, potentially locking in fixed rates for five years. The installation in Wangen-Brüttisellen is expected to deliver over 500,000 kilowatt-hours annually, setting a precedent for future projects in Zurich and Schaffhausen.
With approximately fifty more noise barriers available for solar development, Lima Solar’s investment in the program is set to grow. While the federal government oversees national roads and railways, cantons are responsible for state roads. Recent assessments indicate that solar installations on various infrastructure elements hold promise, yet external funding from the road fund is not an option.
Conclusion
Utilizing public infrastructure for solar energy generation presents a dual opportunity to meet sustainability goals and leverage existing assets for renewable energy production. The successful implementation of PV systems on noise barriers sets a precedent for future projects, encouraging private investments and contributing to Switzerland’s renewable energy targets.
FAQ
1. What is the potential of solar energy generation from noise barriers in Switzerland?
The Swiss Federal Office of Roads estimates the potential at over 100 gigawatt-hours per year, with significant contributions from national roads and railway lines.
2. How are solar panel installations on noise barriers managed?
Partnerships with infrastructure experts and detailed coordination with Astra are essential to navigate safety concerns and logistical challenges associated with noise barrier retrofits.
3. What are the commercial considerations for solar energy from noise barriers?
Commercializing electricity generated from noise barriers involves pricing negotiations and access to the grid, posing challenges in a fluctuating energy market.