Key Takeaways:
- Voltiris, an energy start-up based in Vaud, has partnered with EBL and Eschbach Gemüsebau to pilot its innovative solar modules designed for greenhouses.
- The photovoltaic (PV) technology uses spectral filtering to generate renewable energy without compromising plant growth.
- The pilot installation in Füllinsdorf generates over 50,000 kWh annually, meeting a significant portion of the farm’s energy needs.
- Initial results show no negative impact on Eschbach Gemüsebau’s microleaf crops.
- EBL finances and maintains the system, offering the farm energy at a fixed rate with no upfront costs.
Revolutionary Solar Technology for Greenhouses
Voltiris, a start-up from Epalinges, is advancing renewable energy solutions with its greenhouse-specific solar modules. Unlike traditional photovoltaic systems, which cast shadows detrimental to plant growth, Voltiris’ technology uses spectral filtering to direct non-photosynthetic wavelengths to the solar panels. This ensures crops receive adequate sunlight while simultaneously generating renewable energy.
The minimally invasive design integrates seamlessly into greenhouse structures, requiring no significant modifications.
At Eschbach Gemüsebau, a family-run vegetable farm in Füllinsdorf, around a third of a greenhouse roof has been equipped with Voltiris’ solar modules. The installation generates over 50,000 kWh annually, reducing the farm’s reliance on external energy sources while ensuring uninterrupted crop production.
Industry Collaboration for Sustainability
Andreas Eschbach, co-owner of Eschbach Gemüsebau, praised the system’s efficiency and simplicity: “Installation took about two and a half weeks and caused minimal disruption to operations. Voltiris’ PV system is the first viable energy solution for greenhouses that doesn’t compromise plant growth.”
The project is backed by EBL (Genossenschaft Elektra Baselland), which finances and maintains the system under a contracting model. This allows the farm to access renewable energy at a fixed rate without upfront investment. Encouraged by the pilot’s success, EBL plans to introduce this technology to other greenhouse operators across German-speaking Switzerland.
Scaling Renewable Energy in Agriculture
Voltiris’ collaboration with EBL and Eschbach Gemüsebau marks a significant step toward scaling sustainable energy solutions for agriculture. By converting greenhouse roofs into dual-purpose assets, this pilot demonstrates the potential of local renewable energy systems to address global climate challenges.
With plans for further installations in spring 2025, the initiative underscores the feasibility of integrating advanced solar technology into agricultural operations, paving the way for more resilient and sustainable food production systems.
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