By 2030, Axpo wants to increase its solar capacity by more than 1.2GW and cover the annual consumption of 300,000 households.
Solar ambitions
Axpo is already planning the construction of the next solar power plant in the Alps. Following the completion of the Muttsee dam plant, the company is already planning new solar projects. Thus, they will contribute to a sustainable and reliable power supply.
Axpo plans to increase production sixfold from the current 0.2GW to more than 1.2GW by 2030. CThis corresponds to an annual production of about 1.5 billion kWh or the annual consumption of about 300,000 Swiss households.
In addition, Axpo estimates that the investments will amount to approximately 1.5 billion francs for the expansion. Furthermore, the acceleration of projects like this one is the result of a temporary simplification of the framework conditions for alpine facilities. Christoph Brand, CEO of Axpo says:
“We are very pleased to be able to invest more in the expansion of electricity generation in Switzerland again. The new framework conditions approved by the government, which make these types of investments possible, and the rising electricity market prices make this offensive possible.”
Axpo’s subsidiary CKW is already advancing the energy transition with its parent company. Indeed, CKW is currently installing two solar power plants on buildings every day. CKW relies on the extensive experience and size advantage of Axpo’s French subsidiary.
A proven track record
In terms of expansion in the Alps, the first projects are well ahead of schedule. NalpSolar is a ground-mounted power plant with a capacity of 10MWp under construction on the Nalps reservoir in the canton of Graubünden. In addition, construction will begin in the spring of 2024 for commissioning in the spring of 2025.
From then on, the Alpine solar power plant will provide the necessary electricity in winter. In addition, the project has the support of the Tujetsch City Council. Martin Cavegn, the mayor of Tujetsch, says:
“According to the feasibility study, the location of the solar plant right next to the Nalps Reservoir is ideal. If the environmental impact study is positive, residents will fully support the project. The project will create local value for the town, and we can help expand renewable energy – especially during the winter months.”
The plant has been operating since the end of August 2022. AlpinSolar produces 3.3 million kWh of electricity per year, half of which is generated in winter. Axpo is therefore positioning the Alpine power plants above the fog line in order to produce three times as much electricity.
The Federal Parliament created the preconditions for the rapid expansion of ground-mounted photovoltaic plants with higher winter production. In the autumn, it takes urgent measures for the short-term provision of a reliable power supply. In force until 2025 or until a total annual production of 2TWh is reached.
