Removable Solar Panels on Railway Tracks Launched in Switzerland

Sun-Ways has introduced an innovative project featuring solar panels on railway tracks, aiming to transform energy generation for rail transport while promoting global sustainability efforts. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Swiss company Sun-Ways has completed the world’s first removable solar plant installed directly on an active railway line. Located in western Switzerland, the setup includes 48 photovoltaic modules, each rated at 385 W, and delivers a total capacity of 18 kW.

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The plant will supply 16 MWh of electricity annually to the public grid, just 500 meters away. Passenger trains will begin operating over the panels on April 28.

The Federal Office of Transport approved the project in October 2024, following extensive tests and evaluations. Sun-Ways plans further testing over the next three years, focusing on the durability of panel coatings, soiling levels, and the system’s influence on track infrastructure.

How Solar Panels on Railway Tracks Boost Sustainable Railways?

International researchers assessed the feasibility of using solar panels on railway tracks and confirmed strong commercial potential. Although heavy soiling and mechanical pressure could reduce energy yields, experts believe technical solutions can minimize these risks.

Sun-Ways envisions a future where trains draw power directly from the tracks, making operations nearly self-sufficient. Panels installed between rails would generate electricity as trains run during daylight hours, supporting cleaner transportation solutions.

Using a specially designed train from partner Scheuchzer, Sun-Ways can install up to 1,000 m² of solar panels in only a few hours. This method makes large-scale deployment of solar panels on railway tracks both fast and cost-effective.

Future Expansion of Solar Panels on Railway Tracks Worldwide

The pilot project in Buttes, located in the Val-de-Travers region, covers 100 meters of TransN rail line. Electrical connections are integrated into the panels, and an automated brush system cleans them to maintain peak performance.

Joseph Scuderi, Sun-Ways’ founder, aims to expand this technology beyond Switzerland’s 5,000 kilometers of railways.

Future targets include Germany, Austria, Italy, the United States, and Asian markets, where solar panels on railway tracks could transform energy generation.

Source: interestingengineering.com

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