Switzerland has taken an important step towards energy efficiency and the intelligent use of urban spaces. In the Bern region, the Thunersee wastewater treatment plant has just inaugurated the world's largest foldable photovoltaic system, developed by [company name - missing from original text]. dhp Technology.
The solution combines lightweight engineering, mechanical innovation, and sustainability by transforming treatment channel covers into a source capable of generating 3,6 MW of energy, without requiring new construction areas.
With over 23.000 m² of solar modules, the system utilizes an automatic retraction technology inspired by cable car engineering, a Swiss specialty. The system ensures that, in storm, snow, or hail scenarios, the roof retracts for protection, guaranteeing continuous and safe operation.
Energy economy and security
The expectation is that plant It produces approximately 3 GWh per year, a volume that will be used by the treatment plant itself. The model reduces operational costs, strengthens energy autonomy, and creates an additional layer of protection over existing structures.
For Ingo Schoppe, CEO of ARA Lake ThunThe project represents a paradigm shift:
"We are using existing space intelligently and contributing to security of supply, economic efficiency, and climate protection."
Lightweight steel enables strength and agility.
One of the key elements of the installation is the lightweight steel structure, designed to offer high durability even in a corrosive environment such as that of a treatment plant. 174 tons of steel were installed at 624 points, fixed up to one meter deep.
According to Lars Färber, COO of dhp Technology; “The lightweight steel structure is the ideal support for mobile solar technology; strong, efficient and future-proof.”
A model for the future: battery systems
The project's completion was only possible thanks to strong collaboration between the technical team, suppliers, and independent assessors. Initially planned as a single unit, the system ended up being built in two phases due to the licensing process, a change that, according to ARA Thunersee, was handled pragmatically and efficiently.
According to Ingo Schoppe, director of the treatment plant, the initiative demonstrates how public infrastructure can make a decisive contribution to the energy transition:
“We are using existing space intelligently and strengthening our energy independence. We have already planned to move forward with battery systems to enter the regulated energy market.”
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