Photovoltaic system Tiefenbach
Solar power plant on the glacier
With the expansion of the photovoltaic system at the Tiefenbach Glacier, Bergbahnen Sölden is strengthening its energy supply directly in the ski resort. Once fully operational, the system will deliver over 6 megawatts peak and cover up to 100 percent of the company's own electricity needs in summer. It is a prime example of the responsible use of resources that the company has been practicing 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 specially designed for the requirements of alpine terrain and aims to increase economic efficiency and yield values.
Milestones
-
Technology premiere: For the first time, the Helioplant® system in Austria is utilizing the specific yield potential of high mountain locations.
-
Optimization of energy yield: Alpine optimization aims to achieve an additional yield of up to 40% in comparison.
-
Resilience in high mountains: The construction is statically designed for extreme loads.
-
Space efficiency: The individual installation of the elements allows for compatible integration into the sensitive environment.
Project expansion
Following the successful completion of the one-year test phase in 2024, during which the functionality of the pilot plants was validated under alpine conditions, large-scale scaling of the project began in 2025.
Milestones
-
Foundation work: Around 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 to serve as support structures for the future Helioplant units.
-
Commissioning: At present, 60 Helioplant units are already in active operation and feeding electricity into the grid.
Project insights
Project finalization
The year 2026 marks the main operational phase of the project. The focus will be on the comprehensive 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): Step-by-step assembly will take place within this time frame.
-
Expansion of generation capacity: Installation of a total of 800 Helioplant® systems. Once the work is complete, the total installed capacity will be 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 grid for direct use of the energy generated on site.
-
Project completion: With the final grid connection in October 2026, the plant will go into regular continuous operation.