Switzerland’s Solar Railway Breakthrough: Powering Homes Without New Land
Bern, Tuesday, 23 June 2026.
A Swiss startup has turned railway tracks into a solar power plant, generating enough electricity to power 300,000 homes if scaled nationwide. The world’s first removable solar panels between train rails have already produced over 16,000 kWh—despite a month-long shutdown—proving safety and efficiency. With global interest surging, this innovation could redefine renewable energy by using existing infrastructure, avoiding land conflicts, and cutting emissions without disrupting rail operations.
The Swiss Innovation: Removable Solar Panels on Railway Tracks
On April 24, 2025, Swiss startup Sun-Ways inaugurated the world’s first removable solar power installation between railway tracks in Buttes, canton Neuchâtel [1]. The 100-meter pilot section features 48 photovoltaic modules mounted between the rails, designed to generate electricity without permanent land use [2]. This innovative approach transforms existing railway infrastructure into a dual-purpose asset: transportation corridor and power plant. The panels are installed at a height that allows trains to pass safely overhead, with over 11,000 trains having already circulated across the installation without incident [1].
Proven Performance and Safety
Initial results from the pilot project demonstrate both safety and efficiency. Since May 20, 2025, the installation has produced over 16,000 kWh of electricity despite experiencing a one-month operational shutdown [1]. This output is equivalent to the annual consumption of 3-4 average Swiss households [1]. Joseph Scuderi, founder of Sun-Ways, confirmed the project’s success: “We have achieved our objectives, both in terms of railway safety and electricity production” [1]. The system’s design allows for quick removal - approximately 10 minutes per 6-meter module - using specialized tools, addressing maintenance requirements without disrupting rail operations [1].
Scaling Potential: Switzerland’s Railway Network as a Power Source
The scalability of this innovation presents significant opportunities for Switzerland’s energy transition. The country’s 5,320 km railway network (excluding tunnels and poorly sunlit sections) could potentially generate 1 billion kWh annually if equipped with similar solar installations [1]. This output would cover approximately 2% of Switzerland’s total electricity consumption and power around 300,000 households [1]. The system’s removable design is particularly crucial for maintenance operations, as Scuderi noted: “This aspect is vital when sleepers need replacement or welding work must be carried out on the rails” [1].
Technical Design and Operational Considerations
Engineers developed the Sun-Ways system specifically for railway applications, addressing unique operational challenges. The panels feature anti-reflective surfaces to prevent glare that could affect train operators [2]. A specialized rail-mounted machine enables efficient installation, with Sun-Ways claiming a potential deployment rate of up to 1,000 m² per day [2]. The system’s design also leverages train airflow for self-cleaning, with panels positioned to benefit from the air movement generated by passing trains (up to 90 km/h) [1]. Swiss transport authorities approved the project following extensive safety reviews, and the three-year pilot (running until April 2028) will monitor performance under various weather conditions and track maintenance requirements [2].
Global Interest and International Expansion Plans
The Swiss innovation has attracted international attention, with several countries exploring similar applications. SNCF, France’s national railway company, signed a technical cooperation agreement in February 2026 to study removable solar plants, aiming for 20% photovoltaic coverage by 2030 [1]. Rete Ferroviaria Italiana is in discussions with Sun-Ways for a potential Italian pilot by the end of 2026 [1]. In Asia, South Korea approved a pilot project at Osong station in September 2025, entering a two-year evaluation phase, while Indonesia’s Mutitron Automa is assessing feasibility [1]. The global interest reflects growing recognition of railway networks as untapped renewable energy resources.
Environmental and Urban Planning Implications
This innovation addresses two critical challenges in renewable energy expansion: land use conflicts and urban space constraints. By utilizing existing railway corridors, the system avoids competition with agricultural land or natural habitats [3]. The approach aligns with circular economy principles by maximizing the utility of existing infrastructure. Industry experts highlight its relevance for densely populated regions, where land availability for traditional solar farms is limited [3]. The project demonstrates how renewable energy generation can be integrated into daily infrastructure without requiring additional space, offering a model for sustainable urban development.