Research project
GreatSolarThermalFields
The project supports the development of reliable large-scale solar thermal fields in Switzerland through a practical, hands-on toolkit, including guidelines and the development of a Python-based backend for the calculation and design of solar fields. It is carried out in collaboration with AEE INTEC, combining the expertise of experienced national and international partners and building on results from previous projects. The toolkit is tailored to Swiss conditions and helps avoid common design and construction errors.
Key topics include hydraulic balancing, stagnation and overheating management, safety, and maintenance. A central component is the open-source Python-based backend engine for the accurate sizing and hydraulic configuration of solar fields, forming the foundation for a future planning tool.
To ensure wide dissemination and impact, the toolkit will be promoted through webinars and workshops.
Timeline: The project started in September 2025 and it is planned to complete in December 2027.
This project has received funding from Swiss Federal Office of Energy the under the contract SI_502987.
Contact: Ignacio Gurruchaga
Duration: 01.09.2025 - 31.12.2027
Partner:
Team:
Dr. Andreas Bohren
SPF Institute for Solar Technology Deputy Director of SPF, Head of SPF Testing, Team Leader for SPF Testing & Monitoring
+41 58 257 48 25andreas.bohren@ost.ch
Damian Birchler
SPF Institute for Solar Technology Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter SPF
+41 58 257 41 40damian.birchler@ost.ch
Ignacio Gurruchaga
SPF Institute for Solar Technology Teamleiter SPF Thermische Systeme & Modelling
+41 58 257 42 61ignacio.gurruchaga@ost.ch
Alexander Schmitt
SPF Institute for Solar Technology Projektleiter SPF
+41 58 257 41 44alexander.schmitt@ost.ch
