SAK and Tisca put photovoltaic plant into operation

The two Swiss companies St.Gallisch-Appenzellische Kraftwerke AG (SAK), based in St.Gallen, and Tisca, a textiles manufacturer from Bühler in the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, have put a large-scale photovoltaic plant into operation. As detailed in a press release, SAK has installed solar panels covering an area of ​​4,250 square meters on the reconstructed roofs of the production halls at Tisca’s site in Urnäsch, also in the Swiss canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. For Tisca, the construction and maintenance of the solar system came free of charge, but the company bears refinancing responsibilities by way of photovoltaic contracting. Tisca receives solar power from the electrical energy produced at its own site at a fixed price. With this project, both companies are playing their part in the implementation of the Energy Strategy 2050.

“With photovoltaic contracting, commercial and industrial building owners make their roofs available for photovoltaic expansion projects. SAK is responsible for financing and overseeing the planning, construction and maintenance of this project”, comments Ralph Egeter, head of project development at SAK, in the press release. “On completion of the project, the companies can use the solar power produced by the system at the same time to cover their own requirements at a fixed price in their own company. As compensation for using the roof, the companies receive a certain amount of solar energy free of charge, depending on the size of the system. With this commitment, we are offering trade and industry a simple and cost-effective opportunity to invest in the energy future of Eastern Switzerland”, he adds.

SAK has installed three photovoltaic systems at Tisca. The facility now put into operation is at present the largest of its kind throughout the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. ce/ww