Unconventional Attempt by Asfinag: One of the mighty pillars will carry eight power generators at a height of 140 meters. In total, Asfinag has more than 5,800 bridges, at least some of which may be suitable for similar projects in the future.
In times of heated energy discussions, every company likes to present itself with “green” ideas: the local highway manager Asfinag is now realizing a spectacular project that is unique in Europe: Eight wind turbines with a directed capacity of 4800 kWh will be mounted on one of the huge concrete pillars. “It’s about trying things out and the potential of similar projects going forward,” Asfinag board member Hartwig Hufnagl told media representatives on the ground.
Model for some of the 5800 Asfinag bridges?
According to measurements, the Europabrücke is a windy location – keyword foehn. “We have a total of 5,800 Asfinag bridges in Austria, not all of which are of course suitable for such systems,” says Hufnagl. In any case, the turbines at a height of 140 meters on the Europabrücke should be a signal that Asfinag no longer needs “external” energy by 2030 (also thanks to a number of photovoltaic systems).
Partner Berlin: ‘No masts needed’
Project partner Robert Johnen from the start-up company Mowea, a spin-off of the Technical University of Berlin, personally presented his Austrian premiere project. “Our idea is to use existing infrastructure such as bridges or industrial installations for wind energy. So no extra masts are needed.”
The generated electricity flows to the Patsch mouse point
To put the dimensions into perspective: the mini-wind farm at a dizzying height supplies only slightly more power than is used in an average house. The electricity generated at the Europabrug is supplied to the nearby toll station. The previous connection will of course be maintained and in the event of strong winds, a redelivery can even take place.
Asfinag board member Hufnagl estimated the cost of the European premiere project at around 60,000 euros. In general, the highway operator consumes more than 200 gigawatt hours of energy per year – 47 percent for the tunnels, 25 percent for the sites and 18 percent for the vehicle fleet. So many wind and photovoltaic systems would be needed.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
