Jakarta, INTI – A groundbreaking clean energy innovation has emerged from Switzerland. Known for the precision of its transport systems, the country is once again drawing global attention through a bold leap in renewable energy. A local startup named Sun-Ways has made Switzerland the first nation to install removable solar panels on actively used railway tracks.
Utilizing Infrastructure Without Disrupting Operations
Unlike conventional solar panel installations that require empty land or rooftops, Sun-Ways introduces a unique approach: installing panels between tracks that are still in use. This technology allows trains to continue operating without interference, while simultaneously generating clean energy from underutilized infrastructure space.
Sun-Ways CEO Joseph Scuderi explained that this is the first time solar panels have been installed on active rail tracks without needing to halt train operations. Installation is carried out using a special train from Swiss railway maintenance company Scheuchzer, which can lay up to 1,000 square meters of panels per day.
Pilot Project Begins in the Village of Buttes
The trial project kicked off in spring 2025 on a 100-meter stretch near Buttes Station, in the western Swiss canton of Neuchâtel. A total of 48 solar panels are being installed in this initial phase. Although the energy produced won’t be fed directly into the rail system due to technical complexities, it’s expected to generate around 16,000 kWh per year enough to power several nearby homes.
The panels are also designed to be easily removed for maintenance, addressing challenges that have long hindered the integration of solar technology in transport infrastructure.
A Global Solution for Renewable Energy
Sun-Ways co-founder Baptiste Danichert believes this project holds vast global potential. With over one million kilometers of railway tracks around the world, he estimates at least 50% of them could adopt similar technology. This opens the door for railway tracks to serve a dual purpose not just for transportation but also as a source of clean energy.
This project also offers a smart solution to land constraints, enabling broader adoption of renewable energy without sacrificing green spaces.
Challenges and Criticism
Despite its promise, the project has not escaped criticism. The International Union of Railways raised concerns about the panels’ durability under pressure and potential fire hazards due to microcracks. There are also worries about glare affecting train operators’ visibility.
In response, Sun-Ways stated they’ve developed panels stronger than conventional ones, equipped with anti-reflective filters to ensure safety and operational comfort.
Additionally, installing solar panels on railways is considered more environmentally friendly than building new solar farms, as it doesn’t significantly increase the ecological footprint.
Conclusion:
Switzerland is pioneering the use of railway tracks for solar energy generation. The project by Sun-Ways demonstrates that eco-friendly innovation can be implemented without disrupting transport operations. With massive global potential, this technology could be a major breakthrough in supporting the transition to renewable energy.
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