Solar plant near Sufers will not be built
The energy company Alpiq has halted an alpine solar project near Sufers in Graubünden due to uncertain political framework conditions.
The population of Sufers had solar plant given their approval in principle, but Alpiq has so far not submitted a building application.
The decisive factor, according to Alpiq, is the lack of profitability due to uncertain political framework conditions and a lack of planning certainty.
This outlook was apparently not economically attractive enough to be pursued further.
Earlier projects in the region — such as the considerably larger “Nandro Solar” installation by Zurich’s electricity works — also failed, though primarily due to rejection by voters, mainly over concerns that such large-scale projects could harm the landscape and tourism.
In Graubünden, three large-scale solar installations are planned. The Graubünden cantonal government granted permits for two further installations in spring. Four more are currently in the planning phase.
The planned area above Sufers lies in an alpine landscape that is particularly sensitive in terms of scenery.
Even when economic factors are in place — such as the use of existing infrastructure or winter electricity production, as with Nandro Solar and Tambo Solar — concerns regarding the landscape, biodiversity and tourist appeal frequently lead to rejection.
Environmental organisations such as Pro Natura Graubünden, WWF or landscape conservation foundations play an important role — for example in the protests against Bernina Solar.
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