Axpo, Technische Betriebe Wil and Partners Launch Wind Measurements in Rossrüti

24.02.2026 | The Boxloo designated wind energy area in Wil is set to undergo detailed wind measurements by Axpo, Technische Betriebe Wil and partners. A 125-metre meteorological mast will be installed to collect wind, weather and bat activity data over a period of at least one year, providing the basis for further project planning and the assessment of economic feasibility. Wind energy can generate particularly high levels of electricity during the winter months, making it an ideal complement to Switzerland’s energy mix.

What it’s all about:

• A 125-metre meteorological mast is being installed in the Boxloo designated wind energy area in Wil to measure wind conditions and bat activity.

• The planned wind farm with three turbines could generate around 25 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, equivalent to the consumption of approximately 5,000 households. 

• On Thursday, 12 March 2026, Axpo will host a live visualisation in Boxloo, allowing visitors to experience the full-scale of a wind turbine.

In the coming days, Axpo will erect a 125-metre meteorological mast in Wil. It will collect detailed data on wind speed and wind direction at various heights. Bat activity will also be monitored to assess potential impacts on local wildlife and to develop appropriate mitigation measures. Data will be collected over the course of one year and subsequently analysed. The results will form the basis for further planning of the wind farm in the Boxloo area.

Strong potential at the designated wind energy area

The cantonal structure plan designates Boxloo as a wind energy area and provides for the construction of wind turbines at this site. The Swiss Wind Atlas also confirms the site’s promising wind potential.

The planned wind farm, consisting of three wind turbines, could produce around 25 million kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, covering the needs of approximately 5,000 households. The project aims to generate renewable electricity, particularly during the winter months, thereby contributing to Switzerland’s security of supply.

Live visualisation: wind turbine at full-scale

To give the public a realistic impression of the dimensions of a wind turbine and its integration into the landscape, Axpo is organising a live visualisation event. At nightfall on Thursday, 12 March 2026, a full-scale representation of a wind turbine will be projected into the night sky using light, illustrating its actual size. Experts will be present on site to answer questions and engage in discussion. From 6.00 pm, Axpo will invite visitors to enjoy grilled sausages, bread rolls and refreshments.

The event will take place at the TraumBoxloo event venue, 9512 Rossrüti (St.Gallen). Further information and registration are available via the following link.

By the region, for the region

For Axpo, dialogue with the local population is a key priority. At an information event held on 23 September 2025, the City of Wil, Technische Betriebe Wil, the Swiss Federal Office of Energy, the Office for Spatial Development of the Canton of St. Gallen and Axpo provided information on the project, the approval procedures and the potential of wind energy in Switzerland. Participants had the opportunity to speak with experts, ask questions and receive answers.

Under the motto «By the region, for the region,» the project will deliver not only environmental but also economic benefits: the municipalities hosting the planned wind turbines, as well as local residents, will have the opportunity to participate financially in the project and benefit directly from the wind farm’s operation. Further information about the project is available via the following link.