The **Power House Project** is a true team effort, bringing together friends, kids, neighbors, and innovative companies to work hand in hand. Together, we’re building a unique prototype that demonstrates what’s possible with renewable energy—even in the extreme conditions of the Arctic. From planning to construction, this collaboration is a shining example of how determination and teamwork can turn a vision into reality.  

The Goal: Sustainable Energy for the Arctic  

After a long train journey from the International Zurich Film Festival back to the Norwegian Arctic, we turned our focus to an exciting project: the **Power House**. The goal of the **TOPtoTOP Arctic Base** is to operate sustainably by feeding excess solar energy into the local power grid during the sun-rich summer months and drawing it back during the dark Arctic winter. In this way, the grid serves as our battery, ensuring year-round energy independence.

The Challenge of Renovating the Shed  

Transforming the shed into a solar energy powerhouse was a significant challenge, as the structure is protected under heritage regulations, ruling out demolition or reconstruction. Over the summer, master craftsman Chasper had already repaired the rotting roof structure. From there, our work began in earnest.  

First, we used jacks to straighten the tilted shed. Next, we dug trenches through the rocky ground to lay electrical cables and drainage pipes. Some of the wooden beams were rotten and had to be replaced. Our goal was to make the exterior weatherproof before the snow arrived and to install the solar panels.  

For this, we relied on high-performance **SIGA** building membranes and insulation materials from **ISOVER**. **3S SWISS SOLAR** provided solar modules for the roof, façade, and railings, while **KÜHNE & NAGEL** organized eco-friendly transport of materials. To install the railing-mounted solar panels, we built a terrace on the south side of the shed.  

Accidents and Arctic Challenges  

The construction process was not without setbacks. Alegra suffered a foot injury when she stepped on a large carpenter’s nail, and Dario sustained a kidney bruise after slipping on ice with a scaffold. Despite these challenges, the team pushed forward.  

Winter Installation and Perseverance  and the XEEO knights

While the timing didn’t entirely go as planned, we persevered. Under harsh Arctic winter conditions, with snow and freezing temperatures, we worked to mount the panels. Sabine, Dario, and the kids frequently shoveled snow off the roof and covered it with protective blankets.  

A huge boost came from the **Xeeo** company, whose incredible team—Adi, Sabrina, and even CEO Thomas—joined us on-site to assist with installing the solar panels and electrical setup. The Xeeon team brought not only extensive expertise but also the creativity to solve any Arctic challenge.  

Special thanks go to Guillaume from **3S Swiss Solar Solutions**, who meticulously planned the solar installation and was always just a call away when questions arose. The 3S solar panels are outstanding, already meeting our energy needs in just a few hours of sunlight.

Now, the **Power House** is winter-proof, and we can begin work on the interior.  

Luxury Sleep Arrives with Solar Panels  

Along with the solar panels, we received a wonderful surprise: **Fanello** bed frames and mattresses. Thanks to these, we now sleep just as comfortably as we do aboard the Pachamama.

Here’s a fun anecdote: The **Fanello** logo, printed on some of our t-shirts, reads *“Gut im Bett!”* (“Good in Bed!”). Over the past 20 years, this slogan has led to plenty of teasing, especially after the birth of another child :-).    

Team Effort  

This project wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our community. A heartfelt thank-you to Arvid Berglund, who continuously provides us with invaluable advice and specialized tools. We’re also deeply grateful to our neighbors—Patrick, Henrika, and Terje—for lending us tools whenever we needed them.  

Now, the **Power House** is winter-proof, and we can begin work on the interior.

A Birthday Surprise and Orca Encounters  

Just as we were wrapping up the project, nature presented a stunning gift. On Andri’s birthday, two orcas appeared near the shore below the TOPtoTOP Arctic Base. It was a clear signal for us to set sail aboard the Pachamama to follow them. Our next mission: collecting eDNA and microplastic samples from the Arctic waters.  

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this incredible journey of sustainability, perseverance, and exploration. To support our mission, go here.  

Together, let’s keep exploring and protecting our beautiful planet!