Prafleuri, Switzerland, will host an alpine solar project, according to the letter of intent between Grande Dixence SA and the municipality of Hérémence.
The beginnings of a project
In Prafleuri, the project includes the collaboration of the company Alpiq, the historical partner of Grande Dixence. The project is located in the Prafleuri valley, on a former quarry used during the construction of the Grande Dixence dam. The system will have the potential to produce 40 to 50 GWh of electricity per year, much of it in winter.
The project demonstrates the willingness of the partners to increase their contribution to the security of electricity supply in Switzerland. The goal is to have the facility in operation by the end of 2025. The site has a potential equivalent to the average annual electricity consumption of more than 11,000 homes.
The first measurements were made in early December. A system of tests and precise measurements will take place in the coming weeks. Thus, the objective is to collect information on the potential of solar energy production.
This information will be used to compile the building permit application file before submission at the end of 2023. The goal is to have a large portion of the facility operational by the end of 2025. Alpiq’s experience at this stage of the project will be decisive.
An ideal location
The valley of Prafleuri is an ideal site for the establishment of a solar station. Indeed, it is located at 2800 meters of altitude, south of the tip of Allèves. This old moraine was used as a quarry between 1951 and 1961.
It is a flat area of about 350,000 square meters. The project would therefore have a limited impact on the environment and landscape. Finally, a medium voltage power line supplies a pumping station.
Amédée Kronig, Director of Grande Dixence, says:
“The Hérens Valley is already home to one of the largest hydroelectric complexes in Switzerland, with Grande Dixence. Developing a new project that meets our current electricity supply challenges is therefore in keeping with the same pioneering spirit.”
The site will benefit from bifacial solar panels. Solar radiation is much more important at higher altitudes than on the plateau.
In addition, low temperatures improve the operating conditions. Grande Dixence SA and the municipality of Hérémence have been working together for over 70 years. Thus, the two partners are currently sharing the financing of the project in Prafleuri.
