An energy revolution is taking shape in the heart of the majestic Swiss Alps. Indeed: it is gaining altitude, given the 2500 meters of altitude! Turn2Sun it is a one-of-a-kind hybrid solar/wind system: a solution which, by exploiting the unexplored potential of Alpine sites, can pave the way for interesting innovations in green energy. Even the “downstream” one.
In the Alps the perfect marriage between sun and wind
The pilot project, located in the Survelva district in the canton of Grisons, cleverly combines photovoltaic and wind technologies to ensure a stable energy supply throughout the year.
The plant, installed in August 2023 on the “La Stadera” site (as mentioned, at an altitude of 2500 metres) represents a significant step towards a greener and more autonomous energy future for Switzerland. And not only. For at least two reasons: one is the wise synergy between technology and territory (already seen , promising e , promising, eg). The other is condensed into a word which, net of the semantic abuse to which it is subjected, is still worth a lot: sustainability.
Recycled wind turbines, for more sustainable solar
Turn2Sun's innovation goes beyond the simple combination of solar and wind. The start-up has developed a patented concept that involves the reuse of decommissioned wind turbines as support structures for bifacial solar panels.
This ingenious solution not only reduces the costs and environmental impact of building new metal structures, but also offers a second life to components that would otherwise end up in landfills or incinerators. For the sake of those who still criticize wind power, "why where do the blades end up?" (and in the meantime he burns and breathes dinosaur carcasses doing “vroom vroom” happily, because the engine must be heard, eh).
Alps, an unexplored energy potential
The Alps cover more than 60% of Switzerland's total surface area, offering enormous potential for local electricity production from renewable sources. By taking advantage of the intense solar radiation and constant winds that characterize high altitudes, Turn2Sun's hybrid system could represent a turning point for the energy supply of Swiss communities.
In-depth testing for a sustainable energy future
The pilot plant will remain operational until at least autumn 2024, providing valuable data on the efficiency and resistance of the system to the extreme weather conditions typical of the Alpine environment.
ArmaSuisse Immobilier, which is collaborating on the project, aims to achieve a combined energy yield of approximately 60 MWh per year. If the results are positive, the agency plans to extend the project with the installation of nine other hybrid structures.
A virtuous collaboration between research and industry
The success of this initiative would not have been possible without the support of Swiss partners from the business and research world. This virtuous collaboration demonstrates how innovation and cooperation between the public and private sectors are fundamental to addressing the energy challenges of our time and building a more sustainable future for all.
These two subjects (Turn2Sun and ArmaSuisse Immobilier) can make even the most inaccessible and remote environments protagonists of the ecological transition. A hybrid solar/wind system, innovative design and the intelligent use of recycled materials: these should be elements to be replicated and replicated, propagating from the Alps.
It would be the only avalanche that I like.
