News

58 days ago

Swiss Startup Pilots Solar Panels on Active Railway Tracks

Swiss Startup Sunways Pilots Solar Panels on Active Railway Tracks

In an innovative first, Swiss solar technology startup Sunways has launched a pilot project installing photovoltaic (PV) panels on active railway tracks in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Approved by the Federal Office of Transport (FOT), the installation spans 100 meters on railway operated by transN.

The project involves 48 specialized solar panels equipped with anti-glare coatings to ensure safety and designed to be removable for railway maintenance. Trains passing by will also clean the panels using installed brushes, maintaining efficiency without disrupting rail operations.

The solar power produced—around 18 kW capacity and 16,000 kWh annually—can be used to power railway infrastructure like switches and signals, feed into the local electricity grid, or supply traction energy for locomotives. This flexibility maximizes the value of solar energy generated on-site.

Initial concerns from FOT about the impact on railway safety and maintenance were addressed through independent safety studies and collaboration with railway experts. With installation handled by Scheuchzer SA, capable of installing up to 1,000 square meters of solar panels daily, the project is poised for rapid scaling if successful.

This project highlights a promising pathway to increase solar power production in Switzerland without impacting the sensitive Alpine environment, where solar expansion has faced opposition.

If scaled across the country’s railways, this innovation could provide about 2% of Switzerland’s electricity needs, marking a significant step toward decarbonizing transport and energy sectors.

Latest Jobs

Solar Recruitment

Energy Markets Lead

Romania - Romania

Energy Markets Lead - Romania Role Overview As the Energy Markets Lead, the role involves close collaboration with the Head of Energy Management to support the commercial strategy and market operations of the solar PV and hybrid PV + BESS portfolio in Romania. This position is pivotal in designing hedging strategies, managing contracts with Balance Responsible Parties (BRPs) and route-to-market providers, and maintaining robust relationships with key stakeholders. Additionally, the role includes overseeing market participation, compliance, physical scheduling, and reporting activities. Joining means becoming part of a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to sustainability and innovation. The role offers the chance to work in a dynamic and evolving energy market, providing valuable insights and operational support to optimise asset value. The position also offers opportunities for professional growth within a company that values expertise and commitment to a greener future. Key Responsibilities - Design and structure market hedging strategies tailored to PV and Hybrid (PV+BESS) assets, aligned with portfolio risk and revenue targets. Coordinate and execute activities on the Day-Ahead Market (PZU) and Intra-Day Market (PIZ). - Negotiate and manage contracts with BRP and route-to-market providers. - Build and maintain strong relationships with BRPs, route-to-market providers, regulators, transmission system operators, and other key stakeholders. - Design and improve internal procedures for market participation and compliance. - Monitor guarantees and identify opportunities for optimisation and improvement. - Manage physical notifications and scheduling for efficient energy dispatch. - Track market design changes, regulatory developments, and their impact on commercial strategy. - Handle key reporting activities for the Regulatory Authority, TSO, and Market Operator. Requirements - Degree in Energy, Engineering, Economics, or a related field. - Strong understanding of the Romanian electricity market and relevant regulatory frameworks. - Established network with market operators, BRPs, TSOs, and major off takers in Romania. - Analytical skills and experience working with market data. - Fluency in Romanian and English. - Prior experience in an energy trading or market operations role.

Solar Recruitment

Project Development Manager - Solar PV

Bordeaux - France

LSP Renewables have partnered with a leading IPP to recruit a Project Development Manager in France, who will manage multiple projects at different development stage, from origination to ready to build (RtB) status, build and manage relationships with project stakeholders like land owners and farmers, administration, local municipalities, etc. Key Responsibilities Project Development & Management Manage and control assigned Greenfield development and Co-development activities. Oversee project development from initiation through Ready-to-Build (RtB) status. Identify potential sites for wind, solar, and BESS projects. Support the origination department in securing land and obtaining municipal approvals. Manage project development timelines, risks, and budgets. Prepare and deliver monthly reporting for assigned projects. Ensure safe and high-quality project development within the entrusted line of business. 2. Stakeholder & External Relations Manage relationships with local municipalities, the public, and administrative authorities. Coordinate with external stakeholders carrying out on-site studies (environmental, landscape, noise, agricultural, etc.). Attend Conferences of Services organized by authorizing bodies. Verify and validate project additions when requested by authorizing authorities. 3. Cross-Functional & Transactional Support Support M&A activities as required. Collaborate closely with internal teams to ensure alignment across development phases. Requirements Engineering degree. Minimum 3–5 years of experience in similar roles. Solid knowledge of the energy market. Fluent in French, good proficiency in English (written and spoken).

Solar Recruitment

Grid Connection Manager - Solar PV

Lyon, France - France

LSP Renewables have partnered with a leading IPP to recruit a Grid Connection Manager in France, who will be responsible for ensuring the successful integration of renewable energy projects (solar PV, wind, storage, hybrid systems) into the French electricity grid. You will oversee the entire grid connection process, from feasibility studies through commissioning, while liaising with key stakeholders such as RTE, Enedis, and other DSOs. Key Responsibilities 1. Grid Feasibility & Strategy Conduct grid connection feasibility studies for new renewable energy projects. Analyse current and future grid capacity and constraints using public and private data sources (e.g., Enedis maps, RTE open data, S3REnR, SDRE). Define optimal connection strategies in collaboration with project development and engineering teams, whether to the Enedis medium-voltage (HTA) network, the RTE high-voltage (HTB) network, or via private substations. 2. Connection Process Management Lead the application process for grid connection permits (PCA, ATR, PRAC, PTF, Connection Agreements, Convention de raccordement, etc.) across the project lifecycle. Coordinate with RTE, Enedis, and other DSOs to ensure smooth progress. Monitor project timelines, technical requirements, and compliance with regulations. 3. Technical Oversight Prepare all required documents for grid connection applications, including technical data and single-line diagrams. Draft permit application documentation related to private substations. Analyse and negotiate grid connection offers from Enedis and/or RTE, validating the best technical and economic solutions. Review and validate grid connection designs and technical specifications. Support procurement and installation of grid interface equipment (transformers, substations, protection systems, etc.). Ensure compliance with French grid codes and evolving regulatory frameworks. 4. Stakeholder Engagement Act as the primary point of contact for grid operators, regulatory bodies, and consultants on all grid-related matters. Represent the company in technical meetings and industry working groups. Stay informed on regional grid connection plans and share insights with internal teams. 5. Project & Transaction Support Support origination, development, and construction teams on grid connection issues. Provide technical input for due diligence during M&A opportunities, permitting, and construction. Contribute to financial models with CAPEX/OPEX estimates and grid-related timelines. Requirements Engineering degree in Electrical, Energy Systems, or a related field. Minimum 5 years of experience in grid connection or electrical engineering within the renewable energy sector. Strong knowledge of the French electricity grid, including RTE and Enedis processes. Familiarity with French regulatory frameworks (e.g., TURPE, CRAC, PPE). Proficiency in grid simulation tools (e.g., PSS®E, DIgSILENT PowerFactory) is a plus. Strong understanding of components and equipment used in large-scale solar PV, onshore wind, BESS, high-voltage lines, and substations. Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills. Good English language proficiency (written and spoken). Availability to travel.

Solar Recruitment

Project Developer - Solar PV

Croatia - Croatia

The Project Developer is a direct contributor to the growth of the clients footprint in Croatia by actively participating in the greenfield development, co-development, and further development of large-scale PV projects. His/her area of responsibility ranges from initial contact with the owners and communities to land securing, management of the approval processes and securing the building permits. Key Responsibilities: Driving forward the scouting and analysis of potential solar energy sites (resource conditions, distance areas, restrictions, planning law, environmental constraints) Management of the whole approval process cycle until reaching the readiness for construction of large-scale PV projects. Reporting on the course of project development. Preparation, coordination, and execution of purchase, lease, and permit agreements with landowners to secure contracts Communication and coordination of all external project participants, particularly with owners, communities, public institutions and any other applicable third parties’ experts involved in the development process Project development management to ensure compliance with project objectives (project costs, budget, schedule chain, contract management) Examination, preparation and /or modification of the following approval processes: municipal land use plans, municipal development plans, environmental plans, building plans, grid connection. Involvement, coordination, and control of the involved Greenvolt departments Research and evaluation of the political and planning law situation in the applicable regions and/or States of Hungary Essential Skills & Experience: Planning, Scheduling or Engineering background (Electrical, Energy Technology, Renewable energy systems, Agricultural, or comparable) 4-6 years of relevant professional experience in renewable energy project development in the Croatian market, preferably in the solar energy space. Extensive experience of permitting procedures and requirements Experience in dealing with cadastre and land registers as well as maps (cadastre and field maps, topographic maps) Familiarity with the components and technical equipment usually installed in large-scale PV plants. Proficient and confident with Office application (Word, Excel, Power Point, Teams, Outlook) Fluent spoken and written communication in Croatian and English A sense of responsibility, resilience, flexibility, and willingness to travel nationally Strong communication and negotiation skills Class B driver’s license

Solar Recruitment

Construction Project Manager - Solar PV

France - France

LSP Renewables have partnered with a leading IPP to recruit a Construction Project Manager in France who will be responsible for the successful execution of their projects, ensuring the achievement of contractual objectives while maintaining good relationships with stakeholders. Reporting to the Construction Manager, they will independently manage their projects, from the construction phase to commissioning. Key Responsibilities Pre-project phase (before and after sales): Coordinate with the Design Office to ensure an accurate analysis of photovoltaic potential and relevant technical proposals. Supervise external service providers (architects, topographic surveys, soil studies, network detection, asbestos diagnostics, etc.) in conjunction with the Design Office and Purchasing. Development phase: Initiate, negotiate, and obtain planning permissions in collaboration with the relevant authorities, architects, and the DREAL (Regional Directorate for Regional Development). Follow all procedures related to grid connection: interface with grid operators and the Design Office (particularly to secure feed-in tariffs or self-consumption incentives in accordance with applicable regulations). Understand and implement contractual and legal requirements (contracts, lease options, etc.). Prepare documents for purchase price or additional remuneration contracts depending on the type of project, in coordination with the Design Office. Develop a detailed project schedule in collaboration with stakeholders (clients, subcontractors, etc.). Construction Phase: Represent the project owner during the construction phase. Supervise and/or draft specifications and tender documents (DCE) in coordination with the Design Office and Purchasing, incorporating customer contractual clauses into supplier specifications. Select suppliers for the construction and operation of photovoltaic power plants, in conjunction with Purchasing. Monitor QHSE/Cost/Deadline compliance during the construction phase through to commissioning and connection, while respecting the budget (CAPEX monitoring) and schedule. Prepare regular internal reporting. Coordinate with the building owners' technical teams, service providers (Design Office, Project Managers, Roofers, Electricians, Equipment Suppliers, etc.), and regulatory bodies (safety coordinators, firefighters, inspection agencies, etc.). Organize the commissioning of the plant. Operations Phase: Organize and supervise the operations phase until all contractual obligations are fully fulfilled. Cross-functional responsibilities (non-exhaustive): Stay informed of new innovative solutions on the market. Contribute to the development or improvement of construction-related processes. Support the continuous improvement of the construction department. Requirements Degree educated in an Engineering discipline. Solid knowledge of the energy market. Experience in project management with some renewable energy projects. Positive leadership and adaptability. Availability to travel throughout France. Fluency in spoken and written English.

Solar Recruitment

Operations Director - Solar PV

France - France

LSP Renewables have partnered with a leading IPP to recruit an Operations Director in France - this is a key leadership role, directly contributing to the growth of our clients footprint in France by overseeing the construction and project management of large-scale renewable energy projects, primarily solar PV. The Operations Director ensures that all operational aspects run efficiently, safely, and in alignment with strategic goals. Key Responsibilities 1. Operational Oversight Supervise and coordinate daily operations across production, logistics, and supply chain. Ensure smooth, safe, and efficient execution of all operational activities. 2. Strategic Planning & Execution Contribute to and implement long-term strategic plans. Align operations with corporate goals and sustainability targets. 3. Resource & Budget Management Optimize the use of human, financial, and material resources. Ensure availability and efficient use of equipment and infrastructure. Keep costs aligned with construction budgets and project schedules. 4. Process Optimization Identify inefficiencies and implement continuous improvement initiatives. Leverage technology and innovation to enhance productivity. 5. Compliance & Risk Management Ensure adherence to environmental, health, and safety regulations. Identify and mitigate operational risks, including supply chain disruptions. 6. Team Leadership & Development Lead, mentor, and develop operational teams. Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and high performance. 7. Performance Monitoring & Reporting Analyze operational data and KPIs to assess performance. Prepare reports for executive leadership and recommend improvements. 8. Stakeholder Coordination Collaborate with other departments (finance, HR, sustainability, etc.). Maintain relationships with regulators, suppliers, and community stakeholders. Handle communication with different stakeholders during construction. Requirements Engineering degree (Electrical or Civil Engineering preferred) Strong technical understanding of solar PV plants, high-voltage lines, and substations. Minimum 8 years of experience in renewable energy projects, mainly PV construction (focus on rooftops and carports). Experience in interconnections and parks. Solid construction management experience in renewable powerplants and high-voltage infrastructures. Proven track record of bringing RtB projects to COD. Experience with AutoCAD, MS Project, and MS Office. Strong understanding of project design drawings; ability to participate in technical discussions with designers and BOP contractors. Good English language proficiency (written and spoken).

Solar Recruitment

Legal Manager

Lyon, France - France

LSP Renewables have partnered with a leading IPP to recruit a Legal Manager in France, who will ensure full legal compliance and corporate governance across the group in France. This role covers both corporate and commercial/operational legal matters related to renewable energy project development, supporting daily operations, and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders. Key Responsibilities 1. Corporate Matters Draft minutes of general assemblies of the management board and shareholders, as well as decisions and resolutions of company bodies. Maintain the book of minutes of the management board. Keep all public registers up to date, including the court registry and the ultimate beneficial owners’ registry. Supervise and coordinate the day-to-day administration of all companies in France, including: Maintaining up-to-date internal registers, ledgers, and charts of management board members and shareholders. Creating, administering, and monitoring SPVs (administrative and corporate). Handling company correspondence. Address any additional matters related to legal assistance for the companies. 2. Commercial & Operational Matters Provide legal opinions and prepare commercial contracts related to renewable energy projects (Wind, Solar, BEES), covering: Real estate matters. Development agreements. Procurement and contracts with local authorities. Contact public administrations, as needed. Coordinate legal due diligence processes for the companies. Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts, including: Real Estate Contracts: sale and purchase, easement rights deeds, etc. Procurement Contracts: EPC, supply agreements, service agreements, BOP, BOS, framework agreements, and partnership agreements. M&A Transactions: due diligence support, SPAs, APAs, JVAs, and related agreements. Commercial Contracts: PPAs, tolling agreements, etc. Financing Documents: support on term sheets, facility agreements, etc. Provide legal advice on French civil, commercial, and administrative law. Develop project-specific legal strategies and ensure compliance. Prepare legal communications, reports, and presentations (internal and external). Maintain relationships with law firms, notaries, and other third parties. Manage the legal agenda, including monitoring deadlines for legal proceedings, corporate obligations, and contractual commitments. Conduct regulatory monitoring. Develop and implement systems to ensure compliance with applicable legal/statutory requirements and Group internal procedures, policies, and practices. 3. Decision-Making Responsibilities Evaluate alternatives, weigh risks, and make informed choices to support project success. Navigate uncertainties, allocate resources efficiently, and overcome challenges. Combine analytical thinking with strategic foresight for positive project outcomes. Gather relevant information systematically, apply data-driven insights, and implement/monitor decisions in real time. Identify and present issues, solutions, and risks to stakeholders, ensuring a clear framework is followed. Ensure follow-up on decisions and compliance with deadlines. Requirements Master’s degree in Law with completed lawyer/legal adviser apprenticeship. 3–5 years of experience in a law firm or as in-house counsel, with focus on contract law, civil law, and commercial law. Strong knowledge of: Corporate and transactional law. Energy and administrative law regulations. The renewable energy sector. Procurement (EPC, BOP, BOS, TSA, PV supply contracts, and ancillary agreements). Proven experience in: Drafting and reviewing legal documents. Interpreting legislation into practical application. Language proficiency: Excellent French and English (written and spoken). Skills: Strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and public speaking skills. Ability to explain legal matters clearly to non-specialists. Strong organizational, multitasking, prioritization, and time management abilities. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Willingness to travel if required.

Solar Recruitment

Senior Authorised Person (SAP) - Solar PV

Remote, UK - United Kingdom

LSP Renewables have partnered with a leading renewable energy asset owner to recruit a Senior Authorised Person (SAP) who will be responsible for overseeing and managing High Voltage (HV) operations on utility-scale solar PV assets across the UK. Acting as the primary authority for HV safety alongside the Control Engineer, the SAP will ensure safe operation, maintenance, and compliance of HV systems, including switching, isolation, and issuing safety documentation. This role also involves carrying out HV and LV maintenance across our clients portfolio, including the use and testing of solar PV instruments. Key Responsibilities HV Operations & Maintenance Responsible for HV operation, including switching, isolation, and repair works, as guided by the Control Engineer and External Authorising Engineer. Lead and supervise HV maintenance activities, fault response, and emergency operations. Issue Permit to Work, Limitation of Access, and Sanction to Test where appropriate. Perform routine maintenance, testing, and remedial work on deployed solar PV systems. Carry out corrective maintenance and HV infrastructure upgrades as required. Plan and execute Preventative Maintenance (HV & LV) in line with the annual Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) schedule. Provide fault-finding support to Field Service Engineers. Maintain accurate, auditable records of electrical testing. Health, Safety & Compliance Follow company HV safety rules, site-specific method statements, and risk assessments. Ensure all tasks are performed in line with industry best practice and safety requirements. Comply with Electricity at Work Regulations, BS7671, and other relevant UK standards and legislation. Own risk assessments, operational analysis, and reporting of incidents and safety observations. Coordinate and supervise third-party contractors to ensure compliance with H&S regulations. Maintain awareness of fire, health, and safety requirements for the working environment, attending any required training. Ensure data security and GDPR compliance, particularly in handling CCTV or personal data. Stakeholder Engagement Liaise effectively with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), clients, and other stakeholders. Coordinate with internal teams and external contractors to support safe and efficient site operations. Required Qualifications, Skills & Experience Minimum 5 years’ experience in HV operations, ideally within renewable energy or utility-scale solar. Recognised SAP authorisation from a UK DNO or UK equivalent training provider. Strong knowledge of HV protection systems, transformers, switchgear, and grid compliance. Electrical Engineering degree or HNC/HND in a relevant discipline. Excellent understanding of UK electrical safety regulations and industry best practices. Full UK driving license and willingness to travel nationwide.

Solar Recruitment

O&M Manager

Italy - Italy

RIGHT TO WORK IN ITALY / FLUENT IN ITALIAN APPLICANTS ONLY Our client is on the lookout for a dynamic Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Manager to oversee the daily operations and maintenance of their power plants. This role is pivotal in ensuring the efficient, safe, and reliable performance of these facilities. Why This Role Stands Out:- Impactful Work: Lead the charge in maximising energy production and ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.- Professional Growth: Collaborate with a dedicated Asset Management team to optimise asset efficiency and performance metrics.- Industry Leadership: Join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of the solar energy industry, contributing to a sustainable future.Role Responsibilities:- Manage O&M contracts and coordinate with both internal and external stakeholders.- Develop and execute comprehensive maintenance plans.- Monitor performance metrics and optimise asset efficiency.- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental standards.What You Bring to the Table:- A degree in electrical engineering or a related field.- A minimum of 2 years of experience in O&M management, ideally within the solar energy sector.- Strong knowledge of solar PV systems, including inverters, trackers, and monitoring systems.- Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.- A thorough understanding of safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.- Fluency in Italian.This role is not just a step forward; it's a leap into a future where your skills and expertise will be at the heart of sustainable energy production. If you are a proactive professional with a passion for renewable energy and a knack for operational excellence, this is your chance to make a significant impact.

Solar Recruitment

PV Engineer (O&M)

Multiple locations, U.K - United Kingdom

Embark on a rewarding career as a PV Engineer (O&M) with a leading firm in the renewable energy sector. This role offers the chance to work across various locations, contributing to the maintenance and optimisation of solar PV systems. Key Responsibilities: - Conduct routine maintenance, testing, and remedial work on deployed solar PV systems. - Adhere to company procedures and perform Preventative Maintenance in line with the PPM annual plan. - Execute Corrective Maintenance as required and report daily activities through an online reporting system. - Undertake job-specific risk assessments and report any near misses to the manager. - Supervise and coordinate third-party contractors to ensure compliance with Health & Safety Regulations. - Maintain accurate records of electrical testing for audit purposes. - Perform fault finding on both AC and DC systems and alert the manager of any issues. - Comply with all fire, health, and safety requirements, including attending necessary training. - Be prepared for occasional nights away and participate in a weekend rota with additional pay. Skills and Experience Required: - Level 3 City & Guilds/NVQ qualification in Electrical Installations. - C&G 2382-18 and C&G 2391-52 or equivalent. - HV AP qualification. - Harness Training (desirable, with training provided if required). - First Aid Training and Fire Marshal certification. - H/S IOSH qualification (desirable, with training provided if required). - Central Inverter manufacturer training qualifications. - Proficiency in maintenance procedures and ability to follow maintenance schedules. - Knowledge of AC and DC electrical systems, including AC distribution boards, AC & DC combiner boxes, and automation panels. - Familiarity with CCTV and SCADA systems. - Understanding of High Voltage systems, from 33kV, in terms of switching operations and maintenance. - Competence in using industry instruments and testing equipment such as Digital Multimeters, Amp clamp-meters, and insulation resistance testers. - Minimum of 3 years' experience in Solar PV O&M ground mount. This role is ideal for a dedicated professional with a passion for renewable energy and a commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency. Join a dynamic team and make a tangible impact on the future of sustainable energy.

View All Jobs