Teleférico del Teide has unveiled an innovative propulsion system for its cable car cabins powered entirely by photovoltaic solar energy, eliminating CO₂ emissions and marking a groundbreaking shift for cable cars worldwide. Launched in the Cañadas del Teide National Park, this system is the first off-grid, solar-powered system in the global cable car industry.
By integrating solar energy with advanced storage and energy management solutions, the Teide cable car now operates autonomously without reliance on the public energy grid, reducing its carbon footprint to zero and bolstering Tenerife’s commitment to eco-sustainable tourism.
This clean energy initiative involves a complex system designed by engineers from Switzerland, Germany, and Spain. Using photovoltaic panels and advanced battery storage, the cable car generates and stores sufficient energy for uninterrupted operation, capitalising on both sunlight and the energy generated by the cabins’ downward motion. This setup ensures a reliable power supply for the cable car while keeping its previous engine as an emergency backup.
The project is a significant milestone for sustainability in protected areas, with an investment of two million euros, mainly funded by Teleférico del Teide alongside EU Next Generation funds. The President of the Cabildo of Tenerife, Rosa Dávila, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “This project places Tenerife at the forefront of sustainable technology, setting an example of a completely renewable system in a national park.”
Teleférico del Teide’s managing director, Ignacio Sabaté, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the cable car’s role in combating climate change, proving that even in challenging conditions, such sustainable initiatives are achievable.
Developed by Doppelmayr Group with energy management by Canary Islands-based R7, the system has been specifically designed to withstand the extreme climate of Teide National Park, where drastic temperature changes and high-altitude pressure exert considerable stress on equipment. Installation was carefully managed to avoid disruptions to the cable car’s operation, ensuring minimal impact on visitors.
This sustainable advancement is not only an engineering feat but also sets a global benchmark for renewable energy applications in remote and environmentally sensitive areas. The Teide cable car’s transition to solar power demonstrates how innovative technology can enable sustainable tourism while preserving natural landscapes.
