Switzerland Successfully Tests Solar Panels Installed Between Railway Tracks
BUTTES, SWITZERLAND: A pilot project in Switzerland has demonstrated the potential of generating clean electricity by installing removable solar panels between active railway tracks, offering a new approach to renewable energy production.
The project, developed by Swiss startup Sun-Ways, is being tested on a 100-meter section of railway in Buttes, located in Switzerland’s Val-de-Travers region.
World’s First Removable Solar Railway System
The pilot installation features 48 photovoltaic panels with a combined capacity of 18 kilowatts (kWp).
Unlike conventional solar farms, the panels are designed to be removable, allowing railway operators to lift them when track inspections, repairs, or maintenance work are required.
Initially approved as a three-year trial, the project could become permanent if it continues to perform successfully.
Electricity Supplied to Local Grid
The electricity generated by the solar panels is currently being supplied to the local power grid.
According to Sun-Ways, future versions of the technology may also be able to provide electricity directly to railway substations or train traction systems, helping power rail operations with renewable energy.
Potential for Wider Adoption
Switzerland has more than 5,000 kilometers of railway tracks, providing significant potential for expanding the technology.
Company estimates suggest that if solar panels were installed across suitable sections of the country’s railway network, they could generate around one terawatt-hour of electricity annually, contributing to Switzerland’s renewable energy supply.
Designed for Safety and Durability
Because railway panels remain flat between the tracks, they produce slightly less electricity than tilted rooftop solar systems. However, developers estimate the reduction in energy output is relatively modest.
To address operational concerns, the panels have been designed with durable materials, anti-reflective coatings, and built-in monitoring systems. Special cleaning brushes attached to trains can also help remove dust and debris from the panels.
According to the company, the pilot installation has operated successfully during its initial testing period, with thousands of trains passing over the track without affecting system stability.
International Interest Growing
Following the successful Swiss trial, Sun-Ways has announced plans to explore similar projects in other countries.
The company is working with partners on potential railway solar projects in Italy and has also received approval for another installation in South Korea. Discussions are also underway with organizations in several other countries interested in adopting the technology.
The project highlights how existing transportation infrastructure could play a role in expanding renewable energy generation while making more efficient use of available space.
