In the picturesque Swiss Alps, two local companies are transforming outdated satellite antennas into massive solar panels, harnessing Switzerland’s mountainous terrain for eco-friendly energy production.

This marks the second endeavor of its kind in Leuk, Valais canton, where obsolete antennas are now reborn as energy generators. The mountainous setting ensures these solar panels receive ample direct sunlight, particularly during the winter months, surpassing what’s attainable in misty urban regions.

CKW Group, an energy services provider that assisted Leuk Teleport and Data Center in this transformation, lauds the versatility of repurposed satellite antennas for solar energy. Their ability to align with the sun leads to higher electricity generation compared to traditional solar panels.

According to CKW Group, a single antenna can power 25 households. These saucer-shaped antennas, covered in solar panels, boast a 32-meter diameter and perch 1,000 meters above sea level, guaranteeing optimal sunlight even in winter.

Switzerland faces a pressing energy challenge, with a projected 50 terawatt-hour electricity deficit by 2050. Axpo Group, the country’s leading renewable energy producer and owner of CKW Group, highlights the role of solar energy in addressing this shortfall, stressing its importance in the energy mix.

This eco-conscious initiative repurposing old satellite equipment exemplifies Switzerland’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

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