French railway company SNCF is carrying out tests with its innovative SOLVEIG system, designed to reversibly deploy solar panels on disused railway tracks. This initiative is part of its ferrovoltaic strategy, which seeks to take advantage of railway infrastructure for the generation of renewable energy without affecting the environment.
Solar panels on railway tracks without impact on the ground
The project, developed by AREP, a subsidiary of SNCF Gares & Connexions, allows solar modules to be installed without the need for foundations or invasive works. The system is based on ISO containers that transport and deploy the panels, facilitating their temporary use on non-operational railway lines.
Starting on 17 January 2025, SNCF will begin a six-month test phase at the Achères technicentre (78). During this period, the efficiency of the system will be assessed in a real railway environment. If the results are positive, SOLVEIG could be deployed on other disused lines , offering a flexible energy solution for temporary needs such as maintenance works or local supply.
A commitment to railway sustainability
This trial is part of SNCF’s ambitious goal of installing 1,000 MWc of photovoltaic capacity on its sites by 2030. With the recent creation of SNCF Renouvelables, the company seeks to reduce its energy dependence and ensure a sustainable supply for its rail network, where 80% of national trains run on electricity.
In addition to the SOLVEIG system, SNCF and AREP have promoted other renewable energy initiatives, such as solar canopies in stations, photovoltaic roofs on railway buildings and solar potential studies with the SolAREP application.
Innovation and viability of ferrovoltaics
The concept of ferrovoltaics is based on the optimization of railway space without affecting its main function. By identifying non-operational track sections through solar cadastres, SOLVEIG represents an effective alternative for the energy transition in the railway sector.
If the tests in Achères are successful, SNCF could scale up the project and make it a replicable model in different railway contexts, strengthening its commitment to sustainable mobility and energy efficiency.
Follow us on social media and don’t miss any of our posts!
YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Instagram X ( Twitter ) TikTok
Source and photos: AREP
