Imagine this: huge, outdated satellite dishes that once transmitted signals have now been transformed into giant solar plates producing clean energy! Yes, you read that right. Swiss company CKW, in partnership with smart energy giant SolarEdge, decided not to scrap old parabolic antennas but to convert them into solar panels powering the data center of telecom firm Leuk TDC. These antennas, once symbols of outdated technology, now generate megawatts of clean energy annually, cutting reliance on fossil fuels and slashing electricity costs. But it wasn’t easy! The tilt and shading of panels inside the parabolic antennas posed a serious efficiency problem. Traditional solar systems would see production plummet if even one panel was shaded. The fix? SolarEdge’s inverter system with power optimizers that maximize electricity production at each panel level, overcoming shading and uneven surfaces. This project isn’t just eco-friendly; it’s a smart economic move, as the data center also uses hydropower, further reducing costs and boosting supply stability. CKW’s CEO John Harris says these antennas are always pointed at the sun, making them perfect for solar energy production. This is a prime example of how old infrastructure can be cleverly repurposed for a green future. If you’re tired of hearing about new solar panels, here’s something that really shakes things up! So, what do you think about these innovations? Drop a comment and let’s see who’s all in for these solar wonders and who’s not!
