Covering their own power demand
The photovoltaic systems jointly provide an output of 212 kWp. They are distributed over four building rows and fixed with a statically optimized substructure for flat roofs with little roof reserves. The utilized monocrystalline solar modules can annually produce 208,000 kWh clean energy which will flow into the IWB grid as for the end of 2013. This virtually covers the power supply of the 63 households of the housing cooperative. Moreover, 122 tons CO2 are avoided annually which would be generated by fossil energy carriers.
Worthwhile over the long term
The solar system at the Wohngenossenschaft Lange Erlen is a classic example of how energy may be generated environmentally friendly thanks to photovoltaic systems and especially in a decentralized manner - where energy is actually needed. This is quite along the lines of the turning point in energy policy which the Swiss Federal Council (Bundesrat) aims at with its 2050 energy strategy. The members of the housing cooperative had a primary objective for the installation of a solar system and it was based on a concept of sustainability: This investment increases the value of the housing estate, and something meaningful will be left as a legacy for coming generations living here.
Monument preservation gave the green light
The flat-roof housing estate in Schorenmatten was built in 1928 as a pioneering housing development in the Bauhaus style. It ranks among the architectural historic monuments of national importance. Before the solar system could be mounted, the Cantonal Department of Monument Preservation gave its green light - promptly and without any complications. The canton of the City of Basel welcomes the construction of photovoltaic systems wherever possible, and it also supports and promotes them accordingly.