21/May/2026
With the expansion of the photovoltaic system on the Tiefenbach Glacier, the Sölden mountain lifts are strengthening their energy supply directly within the ski area. Once fully operational, the system will deliver over 6 megawatts peak power and cover up to 100 percent of the company’s own electricity needs in the summer. It exemplifies the responsible use of resources that the company has practiced for years.
Project start
In 2023, an innovative solar energy generation system was commissioned at the Tiefenbach Glacier. The Helioplant® solution, used for the first time in Austria, was specifically designed for the demands of alpine terrain and aims for increased efficiency and higher yields.
Milestones
Technology premiere: For the first time in Austria, the Helioplant® system utilizes the specific yield potential of high mountain locations.
Optimization of energy yield: Alpine optimization aims to achieve an increased yield of up to 40% compared to other methods.
Resilience in high mountain environments: The structure is statically designed to withstand extreme loads.
Space efficiency: The individual placement of the elements allows for compatible integration into the sensitive environment.
Expansion project
Following the successful completion of the one-year test phase in 2024, in which the functionality of the pilot plants was validated under alpine conditions, the large-scale scaling of the project started in 2025.
Milestones:
Foundation work: Approximately 50% of the foundation work for the entire system (a total of 800 elements) has already been successfully completed.
Infrastructure: 350 masts have already been erected, which will serve as support structures for the future Helioplant units.
Project finalization
The year 2026 marks the main operational phase of the project. The focus is on the widespread installation of photovoltaic systems and the expansion of the electrical infrastructure to ensure a sustainable and self-sufficient energy supply on the mountain.
Milestones
Construction period (May – October 2026): The phased assembly will take place within this timeframe.
Expansion of generation capacity: Installation of a total of 800 Helioplant® systems. Upon completion of the work, the total installed capacity will amount to 6.3 MWp.
Infrastructure and grid integration: Construction of two additional energy centers for load distribution and system control.
Connection of the systems to the company’s internal medium-voltage network for direct use of the generated energy on site.
Project completion: With the final grid connection in October 2026, the plant will transition to regular continuous operation.
Commissioning: Currently, 60 Helioplant units are already in active operation and feeding electricity into the grid.
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