immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Category: Energy

  • Expansion of renewable energy plants in Italy

    Expansion of renewable energy plants in Italy

    The Repower Group is significantly expanding its portfolio in Italy. According to a company press release, it has acquired the 35 per cent of shares in Repower Renewable previously held by the London-based investment firm Omnes Capital since it was founded in 2018. The Poschiavo-based electricity producer, distribution system operator and energy trader has also held the remaining 65 per cent since then. This means that the Repower Group now controls 100 per cent of Repower Renewable.

    This means that Repower is now the sole owner of Repower Renewable’s Italian wind, solar and hydroelectric power plants. Their total output amounts to around 120 megawatts. According to the press release, there is also a “full pipeline” of already approved power plant projects with a total capacity of a further 150 megawatts.

    According to the statement, Repower’s strategy envisages the consistent expansion of its portfolio of renewable energy plants in Switzerland and Italy. The 30,000 customers in Italy to date are to be supplied entirely with certified renewable energy in the future.

  • More electric motors researched on construction sites

    More electric motors researched on construction sites

    A team of researchers at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences andArts (HSLU) is to investigate the possibilities for more electric motors on construction sites in a two-year research project. According to a press release, three e-pilot construction sites are to be set up in Lucerne, Basel and Zurich. The savings potential measured there will be compared with values on conventional construction sites that use diesel-powered machines and vehicles.

    The researchers are interested in how smoothly an electrically powered fleet of machines and vehicles can be integrated into everyday construction site operations. The researchers point to the high potential for CO2 reduction and noise reduction, especially on construction sites. According to a preliminary study, cities as clients and construction companies showed great interest. According to estimates, 25 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions are generated in the energy-intensive building sector in particular. Construction machinery and transport vehicles account for 2 per cent over the lifetime of a building.

    Innosuisse, the Swiss Agency for Innovation Promotion, is supporting the research project with around CHF 435,000. Further support is coming from various players in the construction industry. A neutral online platform is to become a hub for the interest groups. Among other things, construction companies will be able to rent electric machines and vehicles there, making climate-neutral construction site technology available to small and medium-sized construction companies. The platform is also intended to provide access to partnership-based financing models for investments in electric construction machinery and transport vehicles.

  • Energy City Gold for Zurich

    Energy City Gold for Zurich

    The city of Zurich has been awarded the Energy City Gold label for the sixth time in 2024, the city administration announced in a press release. Every four years, the Energy City Association awards the label to cities and municipalities that are committed to ambitious energy and climate protection goals. In the current evaluation, the city of Zurich achieved its best result to date.

    Across Switzerland, 109 cities and municipalities have been awarded the Energy City Gold label. “As the largest city in Switzerland, the city of Zurich serves as a role model for other energy cities that also want to consistently achieve their ambitious energy and climate policy goals,” Katrin Bernath, President of the Energy City Association, is quoted in the press release from her speech at the award ceremony. The award was accepted by City Councillor Michael Baumer. “The top score for the city of Zurich shows that we are on the right path to net zero,” said the head of the City of Zurich’s industrial operations.

    In the current re-audit, the City of Zurich’s energy and climate targets also included the area of climate adaptation for the first time. Zurich scored highly here with its specialised planning for heat reduction and urban trees. The city has also launched a programme for urban greening. This programme supports and financially promotes the ecologically valuable upgrading of outdoor spaces, green roofs and vertical greening by providing advice.

  • Synergies for sustainable building and energy solutions

    Synergies for sustainable building and energy solutions

    From 14 to 17 November 2024, visitors to Bernexpo can expect a unique trade fair format: the Hausbau Energie Messe and Energy Future Days will once again join forces to present the largest Swiss event for construction, renovation and energy. Every year, this event attracts over 10,000 private homeowners, prospective builders, architects and planners and offers a varied programme for experts and interested parties.

    Specialist events and innovations for energy and construction
    This year’s focus is on sustainable energy generation and utilisation. A wide range of specialist and public events offer exciting insights and valuable information on topics such as photovoltaics, storage systems, electromobility and refurbishment processes. For architects in particular, the Architecture Forum will be focussing on innovative solutions for modern construction projects under the motto “Liveable living and working spaces”.

    Specialist day for experts and decision-makers
    Thursday is aimed specifically at experts from the construction and energy sector. Architects, planners, energy specialists, installers and decision-makers from the public sector and investors will find an ideal platform for professional dialogue and networking. The combination of trade fair and expert forum creates synergies that provide pioneering impetus for the future of construction and energy supply.

    New platform for solar energy solutions: “BärnSOLAR 24“
    Another highlight is the launch of “BärnSOLAR 24”, a platform dedicated entirely to the integration of solar energy in construction projects. It offers experts targeted answers and customised solutions for the use of solar energy in construction.

  • Expansion of the district heating network in Kaiseraugst for a better heat supply

    Expansion of the district heating network in Kaiseraugst for a better heat supply

    AEW Energie AG is opening up its heating network in Kaiseraugst to new customers. According to a press release, it will begin construction work on two branch lines of the “Ast Dorf” project on 4 November.

    These two branch lines are located at Lindenweg 11 and 13 and between Dorfstrasse, at property no. 36 and Heidemurweg. According to a press release, the work is expected to be completed by Christmas.

    Work on the main district heating line and the other sections along Dorfstrasse and Lindenweg will begin in January 2025. After deducting the municipality’s contribution to the costs, AEW is investing a total of around 3.2 million in the expansion of the Kaiseraugst district heating network.

    The Kaiseraugst heating network has been in operation since October 2021. It is one of the largest in the canton of Aargau. in 2023, additional customers were connected in the industrial area, in the south-east and with the branch to the Rinau retirement home. The large-scale project, which took over four years to build, currently supplies over 1,500 households and numerous industrial and commercial customers with heat from at least 80 per cent renewable energy.

  • Lake Biel supplies energy for Nidau and Biel

    Lake Biel supplies energy for Nidau and Biel

    Energieverbund Bielersee AG is supplying energy to customers in Nidau and Biel for the first time, according to a press release. To this end, the intermediate circuit connecting the pumping station on Dr. Schneiderstrasse with the energy centre in the Alpha building in Nidau has been constructed in recent weeks.

    The lake water reaches the pumping station via two pipes at depths of 20 and 30 metres. In the energy centre, heat pumps are used to produce hot water for heating systems that are connected to the heating network. The cold, in turn, is channelled via a separate network to the Robert-Walser-Platz area near Biel railway station. A peak load boiler is available for cold days.

    The plans for the use of lake water date back to 2015. in 2020, Energie Service Biel/Bienne founded Energieverbund Bielersee AG, in which the city and the Burgergemeinde Nidau are now also shareholders. The lake pipelines were laid in March 2022 and the shell of the pumping station was completed the following May. In future, the energy centre is to be renovated and the heating network extended towards Ipsach.

  • Efficient lighting and a pleasant atmosphere at St.Gallen Cantonal Hospital

    Efficient lighting and a pleasant atmosphere at St.Gallen Cantonal Hospital

    With the recently opened Building 7 A, the St.Gallen Cantonal Hospital not only wants to present itself with a striking face, but also organise efficient and cost-effective processes. According to a press release, the design aims to support patients in the recovery process and offer employees an efficient and pleasant working environment. This also includes the lighting design, which utilises lights from the Tuggen-based company Tulux.

    Passageways have been equipped with 4000 metres of LED strip lighting. Treatment and examination rooms, as well as other workspaces, are illuminated by double diffuser luminaires whose 30×30 centimetre modules can be added to. The SPIN 2 ceiling light was used to create a cosy atmosphere in the waiting and lounge areas. In the restaurant area, spherical lamps attached to pendants provide light. Warm light was used for corridors and lounges, while neutral white 4000K light was used for workspaces and medical areas.

    “The collaboration with Tulux on this major project was excellent.” “Professional and speedy” is how the cooperation is rated in the press release.

  • District heating and sustainability for the Metro Shop

    District heating and sustainability for the Metro Shop

    According to a press release, the Metro Shop in Baden has been connected to the district heating and cooling network. With its high energy requirements and annual consumption of around 300,000 kilowatt hours, it is one of the largest consumers of Baden’s energy network. The connection will make it possible to reduce CO2 emissions by 50 tons per year, according to the city’s press release.

    The city of Baden is pursuing the goal of reducing its energy-related greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050 at the latest. To this end, a consistent switch to renewable energies is planned. In cooperation with Regionalwerke AG Baden, the city is driving forward the rapid expansion of renewable district heating and cooling, the report continues. The expansion is progressing rapidly. Five properties in the administrative assets with an annual consumption of around 1,235,000 kilowatt hours and five properties in the financial assets with an annual consumption of around 320,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) are already connected.

    Sandro Valsecchi, project manager for heating systems at Regionalwerke AG Baden, is quoted as saying that the many interfaces were one of the biggest challenges in the Metro Shop project. “Laying the pipes on both floors of the train station parking garage was particularly challenging – and that during ongoing operations,” says Valsecchi.

    The connection of the Metro Shop marks the completion of a key sub-project in the expansion of the district heating and cooling network. In future, the project will reach further areas of the city in cooperation with Regionalwerke AG Baden.

  • Property funds and solar contracting: a response to the specific needs of property owners

    Property funds and solar contracting: a response to the specific needs of property owners

    How does solar contracting work?
    Solar contracting is based on a simple principle: we install our own photovoltaic panels at your company’s site. Within this framework, we take over the complete planning and project realisation, as well as the financing and management of the system.

    This offer not only enables you to upgrade your property, but also fulfils the legal requirements and the expectations of your investors and tenants. It also enables the creation of new rental space.

    Your unused space as a capital investment
    As a property owner, you probably have areas that are suitable for the installation of photovoltaic panels. At Romande Energie, we offer installation on the following surfaces:

    • On a roof
      Turn unused space into a power plant – from 500m2.
    • On a car park
      Use your car park to generate electricity with a solar carport – from 2,000m2.
    • On a greenfield site
      Set up a ground-mounted solar power system on an unused plot of land – from 2,000m2.

    Stoneweg: a concrete example

    The Stoneweg Group, which specialises in real estate investment, turned to Romande Energie to equip several buildings with solar panels.

    “We have realised several projects with Romande Energie and have always greatly appreciated their reliability and their solutions to specific challenges.” Diana Oblak, Managing Director at Stoneweg

    Click here for the interview

    What are the advantages of contracting?
    Contracting makes it possible

    • the creation of new rental stock and therefore an increase in your returns.
    • guarantee the conformity of your properties.
    • increase the value of your property.
    • reduce theCO2 emissions of your property portfolio.
    • Providing your tenants with clean and locally generated electricity at a competitive price.
    • participate in reducing the risk of electricity shortages at a national level.
    • participate in the fight against climate change.

    To make an appointment or for further information, please contact us at

    www.romande-energie.ch/solar

    0800 233 825 | solar@romande-energie.ch

  • Quantum entanglement – the ultra-fast dance of particles

    Quantum entanglement – the ultra-fast dance of particles

    Quantum entanglement occurs when two or more particles remain in a state in which the state of one particle is inextricably linked to that of the other. This connection remains even over large distances, so that a change to one particle has an immediate effect on the other. Albert Einstein described this effect as “spooky action at a distance.” This fundamental property of quantum physics is an important building block for many pioneering applications.

    The role of time in quantum entanglement
    Although quantum entanglement is extremely fast, it is not instantaneous. Using high-precision measurement methods, TU Wien has established that the formation of entanglement takes place over a period of attoseconds. The research shows that although quantum processes have an immediate effect, they can be measured over time. A laser pulse releases an electron from an atom, causing another electron to be put into a higher energy state – these two electrons are then entangled.

    Measuring attoseconds – a glimpse into the unimaginable
    The time span in which quantum entanglement takes place is so short that it is measured in attoseconds – a billionth of a billionth of a second. These measurements were carried out using advanced simulations and ultrashort laser pulses and revealed that the “birth time” of electron entanglement is 232 attoseconds. This advance allows researchers to directly observe the dynamics of these ultrashort processes and recreate them in experiments.

    Simulations at the attosecond level – a breakthrough in quantum research
    By combining simulations and experiments, researchers at TU Wien were able to precisely reproduce the process of quantum entanglement. The results, published in “Physical Review Letters”, are considered a milestone and create new perspectives for applications in quantum cryptography and quantum computers, in which entanglement plays a central role. The possibility of analysing quantum processes in attoseconds opens up new avenues for the further development of quantum technological systems.

    The understanding of time in quantum physics
    Current research shows that the classical understanding of time is not sufficient to describe quantum effects. In the quantum world, states arise and disappear in tiny time spans that are almost incomprehensible to us. “The electron doesn’t just jump out of the atom, it’s a wave that slowly sloshes out of the atom,” explains Prof Iva Březinová from TU Wien.

    Applications of quantum entanglement – a technology for the future
    Quantum entanglement is much more than a fascinating phenomenon; it forms the basis for revolutionary technologies such as quantum cryptography, which enables extremely secure communication systems, and quantum computers, which perform potentially complex calculations faster and more efficiently than classical computers. By deciphering the ultrafast processes of quantum entanglement, researchers gain insights that make it possible to design these technologies securely and efficiently.

    Research into quantum entanglement on the attosecond scale represents a breakthrough in our understanding of quantum physics and offers enormous potential for the technologies of the future. The precise understanding of these processes allows applications such as quantum cryptography and quantum computing to be further developed, fundamentally changing the world of information processing and security.

  • Suissetec opens new building on the education campus in Lostorf

    Suissetec opens new building on the education campus in Lostorf

    The Swiss-Liechtenstein Building Technology Association suissetec is expanding and modernising its training and further education centre in Lostorf, according to a press release. By the beginning of 2025, a building with workshops, laboratories, training rooms and meeting areas is to be built on around 1,800 square metres. The new building will be presented to the public at an open day on 16 November 2024.

    The infrastructure offers new opportunities for the quality of training and further education in construction professions, according to the statement. Students can learn in a concrete shell at an outdoor workstation just like on a real construction site. Interdisciplinary workshops for plumbers and heating engineers as well as the integration of construction data modelling into the didactic concept would serve as a role model. Müller Wüst AG, which belongs to Debrunner Acifer, has created a digital fabrication model for construction, which is also intended for use in teaching.

    Digital tools allow for flexible, hybrid forms of learning. “Learners will work with real materials, but also practise digitally with virtual reality glasses,” says suissetec Director Christoph Schaer.

    The new two-storey building is the first part of an expansion comprising several buildings. From 2026, the other existing buildings will be renovated in three stages. Suissetec operates the campus as one of three training centres as a “meeting place as well as a place for training and further education” for the construction industry.

    The campus was certified as the country’s first Minergie site in 2023. This means that it fulfils strict energy criteria. The aim is to maximise self-sufficiency with renewable energy, which is generated on the site itself all year round.

  • Researchers develop commercially viable salt batteries for safe energy storage

    Researchers develop commercially viable salt batteries for safe energy storage

    Researchers from the Dübendorf-based Materials for Energy Conversion Laboratory of the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology(Empa) are continuing an Innosuisse project started by Ticino-based salt battery manufacturer Horien Salt Battery Solutions. The aim of the research collaboration is to develop economically attractive and usable salt batteries, according to a press release. Salt batteries are batteries in which the electrolyte is a solid, namely a ceramic ion conductor based on sodium aluminium oxide. The cathode is based on a granulate of common salt and nickel powder. The sodium metal anode is only formed during charging. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, salt batteries are not flammable. They can therefore be used in areas where lithium-ion batteries are not permitted, such as in mining and tunnelling or on oil and gas platforms. Further advantages are their longevity and the significantly cheaper procurement of the raw materials. In contrast to the lithium-ion competition, the raw materials are cheap and available in large quantities, according to the press release.

    One disadvantage of these batteries is their high operating temperature. To be ready for use, a salt battery requires a temperature of 300 degrees Celsius. The researchers are looking for options to make the applications more economical. “Depending on the application, it is more economical to keep a battery warm than to cool it,” Empa researcher Meike Heinz is quoted as saying in the press release.

    Another endeavour is to operate the solid-state batteries nickel-free. The aim is to replace the cathode material nickel with other metals such as zinc. The aim is to establish salt batteries as long-term stationary storage systems thanks to their safety, long service life and the absence of critical raw materials.

  • Canton of Lucerne votes on expansion of renewables

    Canton of Lucerne votes on expansion of renewables

    On 24 November, voters will decide on a bill to amend the Planning and Building Act (PBG). The canton of Lucerne explains in a press release that the amendment to the PBG is intended to accelerate the expansion of renewable energies. Various measures from the planning report on climate and energy policy, which was approved by parliament in 2022, would require these amendments to the PBG. For example, in future, charging stations for electric cars should be planned directly when building car parks. The SVP parliamentary group rejected these changes as they believe that the production of renewable electricity should be voluntary and “not enforced by regulations”. The Centre, FDP, SP, Green and GLP parliamentary groups, on the other hand, approved the government council’s proposal. The cantonal council also voted in favour of the amendments to the PBG by 83 votes to 27. The referendum on 24 November will now take place because a committee has launched a referendum.

    The cantonal government recommends that voters approve the amendments. “We are still investing too much money in importing fossil fuels from abroad. By investing in our domestic renewable energies, we are freeing ourselves from our dependence on foreign countries and generating even more added value here at home,” Fabian Peter, the cantonal councillor responsible for the legislative amendment, is quoted as saying in the press release.

  • Lucerne’s Wesemlin neighbourhood is leading the way, mastering the energy transition together!

    Lucerne’s Wesemlin neighbourhood is leading the way, mastering the energy transition together!

    Despite existing technologies and support measures, switching to climate-neutral forms of heating is still a challenge in Switzerland. In particular, high investment costs and uncertainty about the best technology are holding many owners back. This is where the Wesemlin neighbourhood in Lucerne comes in: In a collaborative project with the HSLU, the aim is to develop community-based, customised heating solutions that go beyond individual actions and involve the entire district in the energy transition.

    The QUBE project – a model for change
    The QUBE research project by HSLU and Innosuisse is based on the assumption that community heating solutions achieve more than isolated measures. The transdisciplinary team developed a method to accompany such change processes that takes equal account of technical and social factors. The pilot project found a perfect test environment in the Wesemlin neighbourhood: residents, authorities and teams of experts worked together to establish climate-neutral energy sources. “Only by involving all stakeholders can we find viable and customised solutions for the local energy transition,” emphasises Prof. Alexa Bodammer from HSLU.

    Community expertise as a driving force
    Initially unfamiliar, the open dialogue in the Wesemlin district brought decisive progress. Residents were able to contribute their own ideas, experiences and concerns, while the research team took on the role of technical moderator and incorporated technical analyses. Business partners and authorities supported the planning, offered data and helped to clarify funding opportunities. “Cooperative projects create possible solutions that would never be achieved through individual solutions,” explains Stefan Mennel from the Institute of Building Technology and Energy IGE.

    Energy transition as a joint task
    The QUBE project impressively demonstrates that technical innovations alone cannot bring about the energy transition. Sustainable change can only be achieved if local residents are involved in shaping it and the solutions are socially accepted. Through workshops, information events and network meetings, technical and social expertise was pooled in order to develop an implementable and accepted energy strategy for the Wesemlin neighbourhood. “This collaborative approach acts as a multiplier for change,” says Bodammer.

    Knowledge building and networking as a lever for success
    The collaboration with experts and authorities led to a great increase in knowledge at an individual level. Today, neighbourhood residents are well equipped for discussions with technical providers and energy suppliers. For Daniel Bolliger, resident and researcher at HSLU’s iHomeLab, the project demonstrates the value of collective engagement: “QUBE has opened up access to relevant stakeholders and energy providers – an opportunity that individuals would otherwise not have had.”

    A model for the future
    The concepts for the neighbourhood energy transition developed as part of QUBE can be used in a variety of ways. The methodology for supporting and moderating cooperative processes provides a blueprint for similar projects in other neighbourhoods and cities. According to Stefan Mennel, interdisciplinary collaboration is the key: “Only through cross-disciplinary, cooperative collaboration can we ensure that everyone involved is properly understood.” This applies both within the project team and in dialogue with the residents of the neighbourhood. The QUBE project has shown that a sustainable, community-led energy transition is possible – a model for the future.

  • The fireproof future of energy storage

    The fireproof future of energy storage

    The salt battery, an integral part of early electromobility, is a safe and durable storage medium that is convincing in various applications. In contrast to lithium-ion batteries, the salt battery uses a solid, ceramic electrolyte that is neither flammable nor explosive. In Switzerland, Empa researchers are working with industrial partners to further improve the performance and efficiency of this technology.

    Advantages over conventional batteries
    The solid-state architecture and high operating temperature of around 300°C make the salt battery particularly suitable for extreme applications such as tunnelling or offshore installations, where safety is a top priority. Due to its temperature resistance and low-maintenance design, it is also used for the emergency power supply of mobile phone antennas, which have to work reliably for decades even under harsh conditions.

    Economic efficiency and challenges
    One disadvantage of the salt battery is its high operating temperature, which requires a basic consumption of energy. Empa researchers such as Meike Heinz and Enea Svaluto-Ferro are therefore working on cell structures that enable the battery to heat itself during use and thus work more efficiently. Despite the additional energy requirement, the salt battery is considered more economical and stable than many alternatives in certain applications.

    Resource-saving raw materials and recycling systems
    Another advantage is the availability of the required raw materials: Sodium and aluminium are inexpensive and plentiful, making battery production cost-effective and sustainable. Empa’s current research focus is on reducing the nickel content in the cells in order to further reduce the ecological footprint. In future projects, zinc could even replace nickel – an option that could further improve access to sustainable energy storage systems.

    Future prospects
    As research progresses, the salt battery could find its way from specialised fields of application to broad, stationary applications. Its use as a long-lasting and safe storage system for residential areas or neighbourhoods is being seriously considered. It thus offers an innovative alternative to lithium-ion batteries and shows how research at Empa can set the course for the future of energy storage.

  • Solar park project completed five months earlier than planned

    Solar park project completed five months earlier than planned

    Nexans Switzerland has commissioned its new solar park at the Cortaillod site five months ahead of schedule. It consists of ten individual systems, each of which was installed on a different roof. These independent units were then connected together to form a higher-level system. According to a statement from the cable manufacturer, this required adaptations to the specific architectural and structural features.

    This approach made it possible to completely avoid interfering with production activities at the site during the installation work. “The result: a 100 per cent successful commissioning, almost five months earlier than planned.”

    Since the summer of 2023, a team of Groupe E Greenwatt specialists from the Boudry NE site has installed over 4,000 solar modules, each with a capacity of 430 watts, “under demanding technical conditions”. The solar park has a total output of 1.7 megawatts. Together with a 700 kilowatt system previously installed by Groupe E, Nexans now achieves a self-consumption rate estimated at over 90 per cent.

    “This strategic partnership supports our goal of continuing to reduce our environmental footprint and develop our business sustainably, and strengthens our energy resilience,” Nexans Switzerland CEO Marco Spinelli is quoted as saying. “Even without these plants, Nexans only consumes electricity that comes 100 per cent from renewable sources, and has done so since the beginning of the year.”

  • Sursee makes solar systems and green roofs standard

    Sursee makes solar systems and green roofs standard

    In future, the roofs of new buildings or roof renovations in the municipality of Sursee are to be fitted with solar panels. For flat roofs, the aim is also to green them. This was decided by the Sursee municipal council on 14 October with the majority approval of a counter-proposal to the municipal initiative for an independent and ecological energy supply (solar initiative). The initiative committee had withdrawn the solar initiative after the city council had drafted the counter-proposal.

    The counter-proposal is in line with the new cantonal energy law, which will come into force on 1 March 2025, subject to a referendum. New buildings will then have to be equipped with 60 per cent solar panels, and 30 per cent for roof renovations. If the requirements are not met, a replacement levy of CHF 1,000 per kilowatt will be due. In deviation from cantonal law, this levy will only be possible in Sursee if the construction and operation of the solar system is economically unreasonable.

    The new cantonal energy law does not specify any requirements for the greening of roofs. However, Sursee wants to use green roofs to improve the urban climate and as a substitute habitat for plants and animals. For this reason, a combination of green roofs and solar panels is being sought as standard on flat roofs.

    The solar utilisation of façades called for in the solar initiative is not provided for in the counter-proposal. The city council feared that this would have a negative impact on the townscape. In addition, the cost-benefit ratio of façade systems is currently even worse than that of roof systems.

  • OST graduates predict solar yield

    OST graduates predict solar yield

    Two graduates of the CAS Energy Digital at the OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences have developed a new tool that can accurately predict the energy yields of photovoltaic (PV) systems. In addition, the data from the systems can be easily and intuitively managed and clearly visualized, according to a press release from OST. This would enable both companies and private individuals to increase the efficiency and profitability of their systems.

    One of the two, Lukas Loser, is quoted as saying that it is “extremely important” for energy suppliers in particular to know when which system is producing how much. This has an influence on the use of power plants and electricity schedules, among other things. This knowledge therefore serves to ensure grid stability and as an important basis for trading activities. “The more accurately you can forecast the portfolio of a PV system, the more optimally the aforementioned processes can be carried out. A good forecast therefore helps both electricity producers and end customers financially.”

    The same applies to private individuals, adds Dimitri Gysin. He developed this tool together with Loser as part of a project. “Precise forecasts can be used to plan the use of appliances with increased energy consumption or to charge an electric car when a lot of energy is available.”

    Both see room for improvement in the accuracy and variety of the meteorological data used. According to the OST, it is quite possible that the forecasting tool will soon be further developed by other students as part of a Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis.

  • Zurich utilities expand smart meter network

    Zurich utilities expand smart meter network

    According to a press release, the electricity utility of the city of Zurich(ewz), Energie 360° and the Zurich water utility (WWZ) are expanding the use of smart meters. They are replacing analog meters that are still read by hand. This allows consumption data to be recorded and transmitted more quickly. By reading electricity, water and gas digitally, customers would have more transparency about their consumption. For the water supply, there are additional advantages in terms of troubleshooting. Any leaks and pipe damage can be detected more quickly using digital water meters.

    Ewz has been working on the supply of digital meters since August 2024. Gas supplier Energie 360° has been involved in the expansion of smart metering systems since April. Ewz plans to replace as many conventional meters as possible with digital meters by 2029. Around 300,000 smart meters are to be available in the city of Zurich and a further 4,000 in the ewz supply area in Graubünden. WVZ has announced the installation of 33,000 smart water meters by 2036.

    “With the installation of smart meters, we are taking an important next step towards the digitalization of the supply networks,” said City Councillor Michael Baumer, Head of the Department of Industrial Operations.

    Like their predecessors, the smart meters will continue to be installed primarily in basements.

  • Zug adopts sustainable energy targets

    Zug adopts sustainable energy targets

    Energy consumption in the canton of Zug amounts to almost 3,000 gigawatt hours per year, with buildings and mobility accounting for the largest share. The cantonal government’s new energy and climate strategy (EKS) aims to reduce energy consumption and rely more heavily on renewable energies. At the same time, the government wants to strengthen security of supply in the canton and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. With clear interim targets up to 2030, the government is concretising the path to these ambitious goals.

    Investments in solar power and energy storage
    A central component of the strategy is to increase the production of solar power in the canton. At the same time, investments in innovative energy storage technologies such as hydrogen are planned. “We want to shape the energy infrastructure of the future through close collaboration with industry and science,” explains Construction Director Florian Weber. Buildings in the canton should also increasingly serve as energy producers and thus become an energy hub.

    Sustainability in agriculture and negative emission technologies
    As part of the KERB sustainability project, the canton is focussing on measures in agriculture to reduce CO2 emissions. Forests and moors play a central role in CO2 sequestration. For unavoidable emissions, the canton is focussing on negative emission technologies that are intended to permanently remove CO2 from the atmosphere. A study is to determine the potential of these technologies in the canton.

    Adapting to climate change
    In addition to reducing emissions, the canton of Zug is also preparing for the effects of climate change. A cantonal natural hazard strategy aims to minimise climate-related risks such as heat and invasive pests. At the same time, investments are being made in climate-adapted road surfaces and sustainable forest management to ensure both protection and recreational areas.

  • New grid platform facilitates self-consumption of solar power and battery storage

    New grid platform facilitates self-consumption of solar power and battery storage

    According to a press release,Evaarist is launching a grid platform “for the democratisation of energy self-sufficiency”. The Sion-based start-up wants to enable more owners of existing solar installations to consume more of their solar production themselves. In addition to the autarcie.ch platform for controlling solar power from the roof, Evaarist also offers easy-to-install battery packs.

    “Energy self-sufficiency is something that is close to our hearts,” says Loïc Viret. He founded Evaarist 2023 with Julien Morard and Stéphane Curchod. The engineering firm specialises in renewable energies and energy self-sufficiency and launched the autarcie.ch platform as part of the Espace Innothèque at the Foire du Valais 2024, according to the press release.

    Evaarist’s considerations were based on the observation that almost 98 per cent of the 240,000 or so existing solar installations in Switzerland are not equipped with batteries. Evaarist offers universal battery systems for solar roofs. A battery pack is installed in parallel with the electricity grid, the solar modules and the existing inverters. “This will make it possible to store and work with additional energy. And above all, the degree of self-sufficiency can be increased to 65 to 85 per cent, compared to 20 to 30 per cent without batteries,” Viret is quoted as saying.

    Furthermore, Evaarist wants to bring the material directly from the manufacturer to the customer and the installation will largely be carried out as a “do it yourself” project. Thanks to an agreement with a German importer, autarcie.ch offers battery packs from CHF 5800 for 10 kilowatt hours.

    Autarcie.ch is not an anti-blackout system. “But our systems can be equipped to work if the grid fails,” Viret is quoted as saying.

  • Innovative PV system financing facilitates entry into solar energy

    Innovative PV system financing facilitates entry into solar energy

    With the clever4all project, energy supplier IBW in Wohlen wants to make it easier for its customers to have their own photovoltaic (PV) system. According to a press release, customers can have their own PV system for as little as CHF 60 per month.

    “In recent years, we have heard from many of our customers that they would like to produce their own electricity but do not have the necessary financial means to invest in a photovoltaic system,” said Peter Lehmann, Chairman of the IBW Management Board. The new offer is “to our knowledge” unique in Switzerland and is aimed at all property owners in Wohlen. Clever4all was developed in collaboration with the Aargauische Kantonalbank(AKB).

    IBW installs the systems at the customer’s premises, with battery storage and charging station if desired, and takes care of regular maintenance. The customer simply pays a monthly instalment over a self-determined term, and at the end of the contract period the system automatically becomes the customer’s property.

    As an example, Peter Lehmann cites a system with an output of 10 kilowatts that produces around 10,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year. The system costs just under CHF 30,000. In this example, the customer makes a down payment of 10 per cent and chooses a contract term of 15 years. With an annual self-consumption of around 3,500 kilowatt hours, the monthly costs in this case are only 60 francs, according to the example.

  • Switzerland’s first low-pressure turbine commissioned in Martigny-Bourg

    Switzerland’s first low-pressure turbine commissioned in Martigny-Bourg

    The Forces Motrices de Martigny-Bourg (FMMB) have commissioned Switzerland’s first low-pressure turbine. As Alpiq writes in a press release, 850,000 kilowatt hours of electricity can now be generated per year in the underwater channel of the river power plant on the Dranse. The power plant’s current three production units generate 89 million kilowatt hours per year.

    Depending on the flow rate, the low-pressure turbine can turbine between 1.25 and 10.2 cubic metres of water per second. It is designed for a head of up to 2.5 metres. It has no additional impact on the environment and does not affect existing electricity production. “The installation of this new low-pressure turbine makes it possible to make the best possible use of the available water resources while at the same time being considerate of the environment,” said power plant manager Georges-Alain Zuber in the press release.

    Planning for the plant began in 2011. It is being subsidised with funds from the cost-covering feed-in remuneration.

    The power plant was built in 1908 as an electricity generator for Electro-Chimie de Paris. Today, the municipalities of Bovernier with 23.04 per cent, Sembrancher with 18.72 per cent, Martigny with 17.22 per cent, Martigny-Combe with 15.58 per cent and Vollèges with 1.64 per cent as well as Alpiq with 18 per cent and the Valais energy supplier FMV with 5.8 per cent have a stake in FMMB.

  • Smart buildings for the future

    Smart buildings for the future

    The city of Schaffhausen has a comprehensive innovation programme with its Smart City strategy. As part of the “Smart building management” project, it has been working with partners such as VIBOO to find solutions to optimise the management of its buildings. The predictive control technology from VIBOO, an Empa spin-off, offers a future-oriented answer to this challenge. By utilising weather and occupancy data, the heating system can be automatically set to the optimal conditions to both save energy and increase comfort for users.

    The spin-off uses a combination of machine learning and building physics to create thermal building models based on measurement data. These models are integrated into a predictive control system that predicts the thermal behaviour of the building, taking into account the weather forecast and user preferences. In this way, energy use is optimised every few minutes and adapted to the building.

    Saving energy in historic buildings
    A pilot project in the listed Bach school building demonstrates the potential of this technology. The aim is to reduce heating energy consumption by at least 20% while increasing thermal comfort. The school building, which has energy deficits due to its age, is ideally suited to this type of smart building management. Initial results are already available and indicate a significant reduction in energy consumption. If the success is confirmed in the further course of the project, a rollout to other buildings is planned.

    Integration into the energy sector of the future
    Predictive heating systems not only offer advantages in terms of energy savings and comfort, but are also ideally prepared for the future requirements of the energy market. The technology is able to use time-dependent energy prices and can adapt to demand response programmes, which are becoming increasingly important in an increasingly decentralised energy supply with renewable energies.

    The system aims to fully integrate buildings into the energy sector to reduce peak loads and maximise the use of renewable energy. The vision goes far beyond energy efficiency – buildings should actively participate in the energy market in the future and make an important contribution to stabilising the electricity grid through intelligent networking.

    Validated savings in different building types
    The technology has already been successfully tested in residential and commercial buildings, schools and public buildings for heating and cooling. Energy savings of between 20% and 40% have been achieved compared to conventional control systems. These savings are accompanied by improved responsiveness to weather changes, which further increases comfort for building users.

    With this project, the city of Schaffhausen is setting an example for the use of forward-looking technologies to improve energy efficiency. If the positive results in the Bach school building are confirmed, this could pave the way for the widespread use of this forward-looking technology in other buildings in the city. Predictive heating systems offer a promising solution for significantly reducing energy consumption in existing buildings while increasing comfort – a decisive step towards a sustainable future.

  • Progress and outlook for the cantonal climate strategy

    Progress and outlook for the cantonal climate strategy

    Successes include the introduction of a procurement guideline for CO2-free vehicles in the cantonal administration and the creation of a legal basis for financial support for flood protection measures. Two measures that have been finalised, while a further 47 are currently being implemented. New administration vehicles must now have a CO2-free drive system, which represents an important step towards a more climate-friendly administration. In addition, the Water Management Act has created the basis for promoting flood protection projects, which are essential for adapting to climate change.

    Public relations work as the key to raising awareness
    Another key aspect of the climate strategy is raising public awareness. Every year, a “climate walk” is organised on a climate-related topic to present projects to citizens. This year’s focus was on the energy-efficient refurbishment of an apartment block, which was upgraded from efficiency class G to class B. This shows how effective refurbishment measures can help to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

    Challenges in the area of fossil fuels and renewable energies
    The latest climate figures show that the proportion of oil heating systems in residential and service buildings has fallen by 5 per cent, while the proportion of heat pumps has risen by the same amount over the same period. Nevertheless, the proportion of natural gas heating systems remains unchanged, which contradicts the climate policy goals. In order to achieve the goal of a climate-friendly energy supply, the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energies must be accelerated.
    On a positive note, electricity production from photovoltaic systems in the canton has more than doubled since 2015. This shows that the use of renewable energies is progressing, even if considerable efforts are still required to achieve the climate targets that have been set.

    Potential for improvement in the cantonal administration
    The cantonal administration has set itself the goal of acting as a role model in climate protection. Despite initial progress, it is clear that energy consumption for heating and hot water in cantonal buildings has only been reduced by 2 per cent. More than half of the heating energy is still obtained from fossil fuels. CO2 emissions from the combustion of these fuels have remained virtually unchanged since 2016, indicating a need for additional action.

    Adjustments to energy requirements and future steps
    The Government Council has submitted measures that can be implemented quickly for consultation in order to increase the use of renewable energies. Among other things, these relate to the replacement of heating systems and the generation of self-generated electricity in new buildings. One example is the requirement that a renewable energy system should always be used in future when replacing heating systems in canton-owned buildings.
    Overall, it is clear that the canton of Schaffhausen is on the right track, but that targeted measures are still required to accelerate the transition to a climate-neutral future.

  • Solar energy on rails: new concept

    Solar energy on rails: new concept

    Sun-Ways wants to transform railway tracks into solar power plants. The idea is to install solar modules between tracks in such a way that they can be easily removed again, for example for track repairs. The Federal Office of Transport has now given the green light for the first pilot project, according to the start-up from Ecublens, which was founded in 2023.

    Sun-Ways will now be able to test its systems on a 100-metre stretch of track near Buttes station from spring 2025. The 48 solar modules will be installed by Scheuchzer, a track builder and manufacturer of track construction systems based in Bussigny VD.

    The installation and connection to the grid will be carried out by Viteos, a provider of renewable energies based in Neuchâtel, and DG Rail, a specialist in railroad power supply. The system will be able to generate up to 16,000 kilowatt hours per year over an area of 100 square meters. The partners in the pilot project are bearing the costs of 585,000 Swiss francs.

    Thanks to a special development from Scheuchzer, the solar systems from Sun-Ways can be installed both manually and automatically on the track bed between the tracks and easily removed again. The Scheuchzer machine can now lay up to 1000 square meters of solar modules per day. In Switzerland alone, with its 5000 kilometers of track systems, Sun-Ways expects a potential of 1 terawatt hour of electricity per year, enough to supply 300,000 households.

    The town of Aigle VD has already approved another plant, which is to be built on private tracks over a length of 1500 kilometers. Sun-Ways is also already in talks with the French state railroads SNCF and with partners in Spain, Romania and South Korea about further pilot projects.

  • Negative emissions for a climate-neutral future

    Negative emissions for a climate-neutral future

    Energie 360° is opening up the market for permanent CO2 removal to interested companies and private individuals. According to a press release, the Zurich-based energy supplier is now enabling them to buy certificates for negative emissions online.

    The physical removal of CO2 takes place in the pyrolysis plant of Energie 360° subsidiary Bioenergie Frauenfeld. There, CO2 is extracted from waste wood with the help of renewable energies and bound as pure carbon. This is mixed with an earth substrate, for example, and can thus be permanently removed from the atmosphere. Bioenergie Frauenfeld produces around 3500 tons of biochar per year. This corresponds to over 10,000 tons of stored CO2.

    One of the first customers for the certificates is Zürcher Kantonalbank(ZKB). “Our goal is to achieve net zero in our operations by 2030,” ZKB CEO Urs Baumann is quoted as saying in the press release. “In order to permanently remove some of our unavoidable CO2 emissions from the atmosphere, we are purchasing negative emissions certificates from Energie 360°’s Frauenfeld bioenergy plant.”

    Energie 360° also invested in two German start-ups in September in order to develop products for the Swiss market with them. Ucaneo Biotech in Berlin has developed an electrochemical process for the direct removal of CO2 from the air. Planeteers in Hamburg removes stored CO2 from seawater and can thus produce mineralized water and improve the acid-binding capacity of the sea.

  • Project funding from LadenPunkt – Apply now!

    Project funding from LadenPunkt – Apply now!

    How can e-vehicle charging be made grid-friendly and efficient? This year’s funding is looking for projects that offer solutions for smart charging at home and at work – especially when the grid is not under heavy load.

    Which projects are being funded?
    In 2024, the focus of project funding is on the topic of “Smart charging 2.0 at home and at work”. We are looking for innovative approaches that test grid-supportive, renewable and demand-oriented charging in practice.

    Funding is available for projects that, for example, test new technologies, offer user-friendly services such as data-supported charging plans, develop business models, e.g. dynamic pricing or networking of buildings and vehicles.

    Who can participate?
    Project funding is aimed at companies and organizations from areas such as electromobility, energy supply, real estate, architecture and site development. Project applications from multidisciplinary consortia that bring together partners from different disciplines are particularly welcome.

    Procedure and funding amount
    Funding is awarded as part of a competition. A jury of experts selects 5 to 8 projects, which receive between CHF 30,000 and CHF 200,000, up to a maximum of 40% of the eligible project costs.

    The LadenPunkt team will be happy to provide you with a non-binding consultation. Further information can be found on the LadenPunkt website.

    The closing date for submissions is December 15, 2024

  • Energy City strengthens climate policy with new certification standards

    Energy City strengthens climate policy with new certification standards

    The Energiestadt association wants to support its 644 member municipalities and cities on the path to climate neutrality in future. In 30 years of commitment, much of what was initially considered progressive has become the standard, writes Energiestadt in a corresponding press release. In order to continue to act as a pacesetter, certification and support for members should be consistently focussed on the net-zero target.

    The Energiestadt label recognises cities and municipalities for their sustainable energy and climate policy. In future, the certification process will place particular emphasis on net-zero relevant strategies and measures. The press release cites the phasing out of natural gas for heating and the promotion of electromobility as examples. To receive the highest accolade of Gold City, in future it will be necessary to prove that strategies and measures are being consistently pursued and are compatible with the net-zero target. At the same time, Energiestadt wants to simplify the certification process for smaller municipalities.

    “With the new instruments, Energiestadt is strengthening its role as a leading competence centre for local energy and climate policy in Switzerland,” said Maren Kornmann, Co-Managing Director of Energiestadt, in the press release. “Energiestadt is the only organisation to offer a comprehensive package for the planning, implementation and monitoring of net-zero measures at local level.”

  • Solar panels for a sustainable energy supply

    Solar panels for a sustainable energy supply

    Lustenberger & Dürst SA has implemented two measures for a sustainable energy supply. According to a press release, 903 solar panels with an output of over 370 kilowatts peak were put into operation on various parts of the Langrüti 4 building at the headquarters in Hünenberg. Further solar modules were installed on the roof and facades at the Langrüti 6 site, with an output of just under 187 kilowatts peak.

    The total capacity of both installations will be 557 kilowatts peak, creating the basis for “maximum energy yield” and helping to cover the company’s own electricity requirements. Lustenberger & Dürst currently generates 60 percent of its annual consumption with self-produced solar power.

    The traditional cheese manufacturer sees potential in terms of sustainability. According to CEO Simon Grander, it will be “a central key to a sustainable world”. “For this reason, we have specifically renewed our infrastructure so that we no longer need fossil fuels in our company buildings,” he is quoted as saying.