A smart way to generate renewable energy that makes use of the railway infrastructure: this is the goal of the Swiss company Sun-Ways. The main idea of this innovative initiative is to use the space available in the railway infrastructure to capture solar energy and convert it into electricity.
A pilot project will see 5,000 solar modules installed in the unused space between railroad tracks. To do this, a special train has been designed that lays the modules as it advances, as if they were a large carpet.
Advantages of the Sun-Ways project
This initiative represents a major step forward in terms of generating renewable energy. Some of the most important advantages are listed below:
- Space and infrastructure: the Sun-Ways modules make use of the space available in the railway network without having to occupy more land or build new structures to capture solar energy.
- Generating renewable energy: this project promotes clean energy and reduces dependence on fossil fuels while also reducing local electricity costs.
- Scalable project: the project founders predict that this technology could be used on approximately 50% of the world’s railways.
Although the Sun-Ways project is still in the development phase, the long-term prospects are very positive. With more than 5,000 km of track suitable for the technology in Switzerland, the panels will have the capacity to generate 2% of the country’s total energy consumption.
The advances in renewable energy never cease to amaze us. Find more news from the sector in our latest blog!
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