World’s Largest Foldable Solar Roof, world record in Switzerland

November 27, 2025

Uetendorf, Switzerland--A solar roof system in Uetendorf, Switzerland, Installed by dhp Technology, covering over \(20,000\ m^{2}\) (about three football fields) and generating enough power for 700 homes, sets the world record for the World’s Largest Foldable Solar Roof, according to the WORLD RECORD ACADEMY.

"Inaugurating the world’s largest foldable solar roof system in Uetendorf, Switzerland, marks another step forward in integrating renewable energy into existing sites," the ParametricArchitecture says.

"The Uetendorf structure exemplifies a unique combination of extensive area coverage, infrastructure integration, and dynamic movability. Built as a multifunctional canopy over treatment basins and service areas, this project repurposes the existing facility footprint to generate renewable electricity.

"Located in the Canton of Bern, over the basins of the ARA Thunersee Wastewater Treatment Plant (WTP), it represents a pivotal achievement in the field of renewable energy infrastructure. Recognized as the world’s largest foldable solar roof system, it showcases Switzerland’s leadership in developing advanced photovoltaic (PV) solutions that maximize energy generation without consuming valuable land, a critical factor in densely populated and highly developed regions."

"Portraying a striking example of energy innovation, the Uetendorf foldable solar roof covers 20,000 square meters, roughly equivalent to three standard football fields ," the ParametricArchitecture says.

"The solar folding roof over the pretreatment and biological basins is strategically positioned to target one of the most energy-intensive public utilities, which accounts for more than 1% of total electricity consumption across Europe.

"Spanning 20,000 square meters, it boasts an installed capacity of 3,000 kilowatt peak (3 MWp). The projected annual electricity output is substantial, ranging between 3.0 and 3.4 gigawatt hours (GWh), which is equivalent to powering approximately 700 homes annually."

"The launch of the world’s largest foldable solar roof system in Uetendorf, Switzerland, is a huge step in the evolution of renewable energy solutions. The roof – the size of three football (soccer) pitches – is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing industrial and municipal sites," the Sustainability Magazine says.

"For sustainability and energy executives seeking scalable, land-efficient technologies, it demonstrates how photovoltaic (PV) generation can be embedded within operationally sensitive environments without compromising output.

"The foldable solar roof spans 20,000 square metres and is positioned over pre-treatment and biological basins, some of the most energy-intensive parts of any wastewater treatment facility."

"A large foldable solar roof system constructed by dhp Technology now covers the ARA Thunersee Wastewater Treatment Plant (WTP), demonstrating a method of embedding photovoltaic (PV) generation within an operationally sensitive environment. The installation is a notable example of dual-purpose infrastructure design," the Construction Digital reports.

"For regions where land is scarce, building vertically or above existing structures is an attractive option. The project in the Canton of Bern uses the space above the wastewater treatment basins, turning a non-productive area into a renewable energy asset.

"This approach contributes to decarbonisation targets without requiring new land. By generating power on-site, utilities can reduce their reliance on purchased electricity and mitigate exposure to volatile energy markets."

"The world's largest foldable solar roof record is held by a system in Uetendorf, Switzerland, covering over \(20,000\ m^{2}\) (about three football fields) and generating enough power for 700 homes. (AI Overview)

"Installed by dhp Technology, the roof is designed to retract automatically during severe weather to protect the panels from wind, snow, or hail."

Location: Uetendorf, Canton of Bern, Switzerland.
Size: Over 20,000 m220 comma 000 space m squared
20,000 𝑚2 (3 football fields).
Installation: A dhp Technology installation over a wastewater treatment plant.
Power output: Generates enough electricity for approximately 700 homes.
Functionality: The roof can be automatically folded and retracted to protect the solar panels from severe weather events like high winds or heavy snow, ensuring its longevity and operational continuity.
Key benefit: It provides a way to generate renewable energy on an existing, operational site without compromising the facility's functions.