Tue, Oct 11th 2022
Solar panels in Swiss mountains will produce energy for only six months of the year.
The solar offensive
Seven large electricity companies are looking for space in the Swiss mountains to build solar farms – a move that is possible after parliament recently eased regulations on high-altitude solar panels, also known as the “solar offensive.” Companies from across Switzerland are pairing up with the Solapine interest group to scout potential sites. Swiss officials say the solar panels could produce as much as 2,000 gigawatt hours per year by 2025, but the project is not without its hurdles. Locations must be above the winter fog line and even then, they will only be able to produce electricity for six months out of the year. The panels must be well-integrated into nature and not interfere with mountain cow grazing. Moreover, the companies must discuss potential sites with residents, cantonal officials, and company stakeholders before they can then “sell” the site to an electric company. Read more.
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