Zurich Airport is pursuing the goal of zeroing its own greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 and is increasingly focusing on the expansion of photovoltaics. In addition to conventional solar systems on roofs and facades, Zurich Airport is now also testing the use of so-called solar fences. An initial test facility has been built near the airport's heating plant to investigate the potential of this technology under real-world conditions.
The innovative solar fence technology consists of vertically mounted photovoltaic modules, which are designed to achieve a higher power yield of ten to thirty percent compared to horizontal systems. This is achieved by harnessing solar radiation from both sides, which makes power generation more consistent throughout the day. Another advantage is the dual use of the modules as fence elements. Guido Hüni, Head of Energy and Decarbonization at Zurich Airport, explained that the one-year test phase will be used to gain experience with these vertical systems in order to test their suitability for other areas, such as parking lots.
The pilot system was installed on a disused security fence. The goal of the project is to gain detailed insights into the performance, resilience to weather influences, and practical integration of the solar fences into airport operations. The expansion of photovoltaics is a central component of Zurich Airport's decarbonization strategy. The airport already sources external electricity exclusively from renewable sources. The planned photovoltaic projects are expected to significantly increase the airport's in-house production of sustainable electricity in the coming years.
By 2040, solar power production is to be increased twentyfold compared to 2024. Currently, twelve buildings are already equipped with photovoltaic systems. An analysis has shown that another 40 rooftops could be suitable for solar installations, although aspects such as glare protection for pilots and tower employees must be taken into account. In the long term, the solar systems at Zurich Airport are expected to generate an amount of electricity equivalent to the annual consumption of 5000 Swiss households.
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