Axpo today officially launched construction of the alpine solar project NalpSolar

Axpo today officially launched construction of the alpine solar project NalpSolar with a ceremonial event held in the municipality of Tujetsch, located in the canton of Grisons (Graubünden), Switzerland. This pioneering project enables Axpo to gain valuable experience in alpine solar energy – a key step towards advancing this technology in demanding high-altitude environments. NalpSolar forms part of the Swiss federal government’s “Solar Express” initiative and supports Axpo’s strategy to drive forward the energy transition in Switzerland.  

Located above Tujetsch, close to the existing Lai da Nalps reservoir, the solar plant will have an installed capacity of around eight megawatts and is expected to produce nearly eleven gigawatt hours of electricity per year – equivalent to the annual consumption of approximately 2,000 households. The electricity generated will be supplied to Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) over a 20-year period and used to power the railway network.

A milestone for alpine solar energy

Speaking at the launch event, Antoine Millioud, Head of Axpo’s Solar Division, highlighted the significance of the project: “NalpSolar is a pioneering project for Axpo. Following two years of intensive planning and permitting, we are now entering the construction phase. In the Surselva region of Grisons – an area where Axpo already has a long-standing hydropower presence – we are now also making a contribution in solar energy. Winter power production is critical for Switzerland, and alpine solar plants such as NalpSolar play an role in meeting demand during the colder months. Despite the ambitious targets set by the Solar Express initiative, Axpo and its partners have shown great commitment and drive to make progress. With NalpSolar, we are also gathering valuable insights into the technology and execution of alpine solar projects – innovation that will help pave the way for future development. We look forward to the construction phase ahead and thank all project partners for their outstanding efforts.”

Tujetsch – a renewable energy pioneer

Martin Cavegn, Mayor of Tujetsch, emphasised the importance of the project for the local community: “This is a great day for our municipality. With NalpSolar, we are once again making a strong statement for a sustainable energy future. The site next to the Nalps reservoir combines existing infrastructure with new, climate-friendly technology. Our community benefits from local economic value creation and contributes to Switzerland’s energy security. With NalpSolar and Sedrun Solar, two major solar projects are now taking shape in Tujetsch. Our early commitment to such projects is paying off.”

Construction timeline

Preparations for the construction work for NalpSolar began in March 2025. In order to meet the requirements of the Solar Express initiative, at least ten percent of the installed capacity is scheduled to be connected to the grid by the end of 2025. Further construction phases will take place during the summer months in the years that follow, with the plant expected to reach full production capacity by 2028.

About Axpo

Axpo is driven by a single purpose – to enable a sustainable future through innovative energy solutions.  Axpo is Switzerland's largest energy producer and an international leader in energy trading and the marketing of solar and wind power. Axpo combines the experience and expertise of more than 7,000 employees who are driven by a passion for innovation, collaboration and impactful change.  Using cutting-edge technologies, Axpo innovates to meet the evolving needs of its customers in over 30 countries across Europe, North America and Asia.