Andrea Flütsch, a forward-thinking farmer in Graubünden, Switzerland, is taking active steps to contribute to the energy transition. As part of the Grison Climate Project, he’s implemented an innovative solution to maximize the use of renewable energy on his farm. With the help of the Switzerland Innovation Park Biel/Bienne and its engineering team, Andrea has found a way to make his battery-powered farm equipment part of a more sustainable future.
Andrea's farm already employs several battery-electric machines, such as an electric mower. However, these machines are only used periodically, meaning their batteries often sit idle. Andrea’s goal was to improve the year-round utilization of these batteries to enhance both the economic and environmental footprint of his farm operations.
With the Swiss Battery Technology Center’s FARMeHUB technology, Andrea can now use the battery of his electric mower as an energy storage unit for his farm’s photovoltaic (PV) system. When the mower isn’t in use, its battery stores surplus solar energy, which can then be fed back into the farm’s electrical system during periods when the sun isn’t shining, such as at night. This bidirectional charging system not only helps Andrea reduce his reliance on the public power grid but also allows him to maximize the use of self-generated solar power, lowering both his electricity costs and carbon footprint.
This solution is particularly effective in agricultural settings, where PV systems often generate more electricity than needed during peak daylight hours. Farmers like Andrea benefit from lower electricity bills and the ability to operate machinery largely powered by renewable energy. Local utility providers also benefit from reduced grid fluctuations. This innovative use of bidirectional charging enables farmers to contribute directly to the energy transition, reducing their dependency on fossil fuels and increasing their energy autonomy.
Behind this technological advancement is the Swiss Battery Technology Center (SBTC), part of Switzerland Innovation Park Biel/Bienne, which plays a pivotal role in researching and promoting sustainable electrification. In collaboration with the Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH), the SBTC operates Switzerland's largest battery test laboratory. This cutting-edge facility focuses on improving battery sustainability by developing methods for disassembly and material reuse, ultimately achieving high recycling rates for entire batteries.
At the SBTC, safety and cost efficiency are top priorities. By exploring innovative ways to make electrification more sustainable, the center is leading efforts to ensure that battery technologies not only meet the demands of industries like agriculture but also align with global sustainability goals.
Discover how bidirectional charging is transforming agriculture in this podcast