Vorarlberg start-up

Cycle paths that produce electricity with photovoltaics

This is what the cycle paths of the future could look like.

(Bild: Rendering: mo energy systems.)

The Vorarlberg greentech start-up "mo energy systems", based in Lochau, has developed a standardized module system with which cycle paths can supply electricity - using the power of the sun.  

Cycle paths that produce electricity? This is exactly what the greentech start-up "mo energy systems" from Lochau has developed together with architect Gerold Strehle and "PR Stromkreis Elektrotechnik" - as a modular system that can be quickly assembled. From the Dornbirn-Nord traffic circle to the Dornbirn-Schwefel settlement boundary alone, enough electricity could be produced for over 200 single-family homes, namely 860,000 kilowatt hours per year. "The Vorarlberg cycle path network has 1000 kilometers. Five percent of this could supply electricity for around 7,000 households," explains Alexander Moosbrugger, founder and Managing Director of mo energy systems.

The PV modules cover the cycle paths and offer pedal riders protection from rain and sun. The individual PV elements are 12 meters long and can grow in width in 50-centimeter increments. In addition to PV glass modules and brackets, each element includes the steel substructure with cable and wire structure as well as a foundation. The anchoring is carried out without any concrete or excavation work. The inverters are integrated into the supporting structure.

Covered cycle paths that generate electricity.

(Bild: Rendering: mo energy systems. )

(Bild: Rendering: mo energy systems.)

Electricity production on a sealed surface
"Cycle paths have enormous solar power potential. We need to exploit this on the road to energy autonomy. With our module system, we are offering an economically, ecologically and aesthetically attractive solution for the first time," says Moosbrugger. The particular advantage of this idea is that the electricity is produced on already sealed surfaces. 

Award-winning idea
Others also like the concept, which is why it has now been awarded the "Special Prize for Visionary Concepts" at the 4th Innovation Award for Integrated Photovoltaics 2024 of the Austrian Photovoltaic Technology Platform (TPPV). The official award ceremony will take place on April 4 at the Austria Center Vienna in Vienna.