- Press Release
Alpine PV systems: better knowledge transfer thanks to universities of applied sciences
23.07.2024 Four universities of applied sciences have launched a new platform for alpine photovoltaic projects. The platform offers a comprehensive overview of the current status of all planned, rejected and completed alpine photovoltaic systems in Switzerland. The aim is to create transparency and allow the public to learn about the progress of these projects that are so vital to the energy transition.
The platform alpine-pv.ch is a joint project by Bern University of Applied Sciences BFH, Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences OST, Scuola Universitaria Professionale della Svizzera Italiana SUPSI and Zurich University of Applied Sciences ZHAW. It provides the latest information and scientific insights on alpine photovoltaic systems, as well as alpine research facilities and pilot plants, and encourages networking between research and practice in the field of photovoltaics. This collaboration makes it possible for scientific findings and practical experience to be shared efficiently and to flow into ongoing projects.
“Alpine solar plants are a small but important component of the energy transition in Switzerland”
Besides detailed information on the progress of individual projects, alpine-pv.ch is above all a hub for know-how on alpine photovoltaic systems. On the basis of close collaboration and interviews with the project managers, the universities of applied sciences identify technical challenges and develop solutions. Unlike in traditional research projects, where initial results are only presented on completion of the project, the alpine-pv.ch platform aims to present the results in the form of specialist articles immediately after an insight has been gained. This ensures that the individual project managers can gain maximum benefit from the shared knowledge.
Through this initiative, the participating universities of applied sciences are making a significant contribution to the energy transition and the implementation of the new energy legislation in Switzerland. The pooling of knowledge and resources helps to maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of PV projects in the Alps and support Switzerland on its path towards a sustainable energy future.
The platform shows, for example, that all planned systems would have an annual energy yield of 939 GWh, of which over half – 563 GWh – is in an active planning phase, with only 373 GWh having been withdrawn or rejected.
