In Sölden, in the Ötztal valley of Tyrol, the Innsbruck-based system provider Helioplant, in partnership with SolarEdge, is building a distinctive alpine solar installation. Unlike conventional systems, the bifacial solar modules are mounted vertically on a cross-shaped substructure rather than at an angle. Each column supports four independent wings, with 15 to 16 bifacial modules arranged around it.
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Air turbulence keeps modules snow-free
This tree-like structure offers several advantages over traditional vertical row installations. Because the modules are mounted vertically, snow does not accumulate. The cross-shaped design further prevents snow drifts. Even at low wind speeds, the structure generates air turbulence that stops snow from settling, keeping the photovoltaic system snow-free. Around the installation, a natural snow crater forms, reflecting light onto the underside of the modules and further increasing energy yield through the so-called albedo effect.
With its tree-like design, the photovoltaic installation integrates well into mountainous terrain and blends naturally into the landscape. One challenge remains. “While our tree-like structure for bifacial photovoltaic installations addresses many of the challenges of solar energy generation in high-altitude alpine regions, it is also more susceptible to increased shading of the modules,” explains Florian Jamschek, co-founder of Helioplant. “The only way to overcome this and maximise energy yields is by using SolarEdge technology. This enables us to fulfil our promise to deliver reliable and stable clean energy for ski resorts to meet their high energy needs.”
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Ideal for bifacial modules
By equipping each module with its own SolarEdge power optimiser, every module is able to operate independently. As a result, weaker-performing modules do not limit the output of the entire string. Instead, the string output reflects the combined performance of all individual modules. This approach is particularly well suited to bifacial modules, where rear-side energy capture can fluctuate significantly. For Helioplant installations, this effect is amplified by light reflected unevenly from snow-covered surfaces.
Energy for three ski resorts
In 2023, the two partners installed a test system in Sölden using this technology. The pilot project comprised twelve bifacial, tree-like photovoltaic structures built at 2,850 metres near the Tiefenbach Glacier. Powered by SolarEdge technology, the installation supplied electricity to a ski lift for an entire season, significantly reducing reliance on costly grid power.
Solargik – slim mounting for fields and challenging terrain
Following this success, Helioplant is now constructing around 800 of the tree-like structures. The installation, located in Sölden at an altitude of 2,850 to 3,000 metres, will have a capacity of approximately 6.3 megawatts. Scheduled for completion in the second half of 2026, the solar plant will supply clean energy to three major ski resorts in the region. It is expected to cover around one third of annual energy demand, estimated at 28 gigawatt hours, including electricity for cable car systems, hospitality operations and snowmaking. (su)
