Vertical solar modules along Runway West: Weidmüller supports Fraport AG’s pioneering solar project with safe connection and protection technology
One of Germany’s most innovative solar projects has been created at Frankfurt Airport, with Weidmüller playing a key role. Around 37,000 solar modules have been installed vertically on a 2.8-kilometre strip along Runway West on the airport site. This special design, implemented by Next2Sun Technology GmbH on behalf of Fraport AG along Runway West, not only enables an impressive annual output of up to 17,400 kWh, but also shows how sustainable energy supply can be achieved even in safety-critical areas. With Weidmüller’s connectivity and protection components, the entire energy system was implemented safely, efficiently and in compliance with regulations.
For the system to operate reliably, far more than solar modules are needed. It also requires a safe, intelligent backbone for power distribution. This is exactly where Weidmüller comes in: 42 AC inverter combiner boxes and 134 PV Next DC combiner boxes ensure that the current generated by the system can be safely combined and fed into the grid. The systems are customised – with lockable control cabinets, individual marking, complete documentation and specially adapted surge protection. These solutions form the technical heart of the system and make continuous operation along the kilometre-long solar tract possible in the first place.
A key role is played by the PV Next combiner boxes, Weidmüller’s versatile DC protection solution. They reliably protect the system against surge voltages while also allowing multiple strings to be combined flexibly and safely – a key advantage in large-scale systems. As the combiner boxes are available in various versions, they are suitable for all common European inverters. This means maximum flexibility when designing the system.
The PV Next fireman switch offers an additional safety advantage: in the event of a fire, it automatically disconnects the PV panels from the inverters, thereby fulfilling an essential function in an environment where the highest safety requirements apply.
Weidmüller also makes a decisive contribution to the stability of the overall system on the AC side. The AC‑combiner boxes provide protection against surge voltage. This makes the solution attractive both for large PV parks and for applications such as electric vehicle charging stations – wherever quick installation and a high level of protection are required.
The generated solar power flows directly into the infrastructure of airport operator Fraport. Among other things, it is used for air conditioning in the terminals and for charging the electric vehicle fleet. The project is therefore an important building block on the Fraport Group’s path towards its climate protection target of achieving greenhouse gas-neutral operations within Scopes 1 and 2 by no later than 2045.
Particular attention was also paid to environmental protection: all construction phases were closely coordinated with the nature conservation authorities, and ecologically valuable green spaces within the site were protected.
“The project shows how innovative solar technology and high-performance connectivity can work hand in hand. With the PV Next portfolio, our protection components and customer-specific system solutions, we are making an important contribution to reliable, safe and scalable PV installations – especially where the highest requirements apply,” says Andre Pestrup, Product Manager at Weidmüller.
