Axpo Continues With Solar Offensive In The Alps

• Axpo plans to add another alpine solar power plant to its portfolio in Switzerland 
• The 30 MW project is proposed to be located on Alp da Rueun in Canton of Graubünden 
• Together with its previously announced 15 MW project on Alp da Schnaus, these await a positive public vote to go ahead 

Switzerland-based utility Axpo plans to expand its alpine solar power plant portfolio in the Canton of Graubünden to around 45 MW, with the addition of a 30 MW plant in the Municipality of Ilanz/Glion. 

The 30 MW ground mounted Ovra Solara Rueun project is planned to be constructed on Alp da Rueun. It plans to construct the project in harmony with the existing hiking trails and skiing routes, and ensure alpine pasture management can continue after it comes online. 

This one follows the company's announcement of a 15 MW Ovra Solara Camplauns Alpine PV Plant in September 2023 in the same location, on Alp da Schnaus covering an area of 200,000 sq. m. (see Another Alpine Solar Power Plant In Switzerland). 

The 2 projects will generate an estimated 66 GWh of clean energy in the region, important especially during winters, to supply to more than 14,000 households, according to the project promoter.  

While the 2 proposed plants have the blessings of the Ilanz/Glion municipality, these now await a positive vote from the public to apply for a building permit.  

"With these plants, we are increasing energy security in Switzerland, adding value to the region and bringing the community long-term income for the municipal treasury," said Mayor Marcus Beer.  

Axpo plans to begin construction on site of the 2 projects in Spring 2025, followed by partial commissioning in late-2025. 

Recently, local utility EWD Elektrizitätswerk Davos AG proposed an alpine PV plant in the Parsenn area in Meierhofer Tälli in cooperation with the Municipality of Davos, the municipal utility Allianz Swisspower, and energy supplier IWB. The IWB is also planning a 12 MW alpine plant in the Meiringen-Hasliberg ski area (see Interest In Solar Power In The Swiss Alps Growing).