THE PROJECT: A symbol for the preservation of creation that is visible from far and wide was created by SOLARWORLD in December of 2008 together with the Vatican. 2,394 solar modules on the roof of the papal audience hall have since been generating electricity: some 300,000 kilowatt hours per year. This would be enough to supply energy to some 100 households – a somewhat small plant in comparison with others but a great symbol.

Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visit the Vatican every year taking back into their respective home countries the vision of preserving our creation. Already in 2002 our CEO Frank H. Asback had handed over a solar cell to the then Pope John Paul II as a gift. The complete solar plant was received by his successor, Pope Benedict XVI. For this exemplary project the Vatican was awarded the European Solar Prize in 2008.