Based in Bludenz, Austria, TWISTOR develops modular, automated hardware engineered specifically for challenging alpine weather conditions. By enabling controlled, on-demand snow clearing at the push of a button, the system prevents roof overload, mitigates snow-slide safety risks, and eliminates winter power production losses.
Sara Kapeller, CEO of Austrian innovation firm TWISTOR GmbH, discusses the commercial launch of the company’s patented snow management technology for rooftop photovoltaic installations. Kapeller outlines how establishing series production positions TWISTOR to partner with solar installers, roofing contractors, and commercial developers across snow-prone European markets.
A brief description of the company and its activities.
Sara Kapeller: TWISTOR GmbH is an Austrian innovation company developing smart solutions for snow management on photovoltaic systems. Our patented technology enables the controlled removal of snow from solar roofs, helping to maximize energy production, improve safety, and protect solar installations from snow-related damage. From product development and engineering to manufacturing and market introduction, we are committed to creating reliable, high-quality solutions designed for demanding alpine conditions. By working closely with installers, roofing professionals, and industry partners, we support the transition to more efficient and sustainable solar energy.
What are the main areas of activity of the company?
S.K: TWISTOR GmbH focuses on the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of innovative snow management solutions for photovoltaic systems. Our core activities include research and development, engineering, product testing, production, and collaboration with installers, roofing professionals, and industry partners to deliver reliable solutions that improve the safety, performance, and efficiency of solar installations.
What’s the news about new products/services?
S.K: TWISTOR GmbH has successfully developed its patented snow management solution into a fully established series product. The TWISTOR system enables the controlled removal of snow from photovoltaic systems at the push of a button, helping to increase energy production, improve operational safety, and protect solar installations from snow-related damage.
After extensive development, testing, and optimization for alpine conditions, TWISTOR is now ready for large-scale production and practical use. The series product is available for solar installers, roofing professionals, and customers looking for a reliable solution to improve the performance and safety of photovoltaic systems in snowy regions.
What are the ranges of products/services?
S.K: We offer innovative snow management solutions for photovoltaic systems. The product range includes modular TWISTOR systems in different lengths, designed to suit various solar roof sizes and installation requirements.
The systems are engineered for alpine and snow-prone regions and provide a reliable solution for the controlled removal of snow from photovoltaic installations. In addition to the hardware components, TWISTOR supports customers and partners with technical expertise, installation guidance, and solutions tailored to the needs of solar installers and roofing professionals.
What is the state of the market where you are currently active?
S.K: The market for photovoltaic systems is growing rapidly, particularly in alpine and snow-prone regions where solar energy is becoming increasingly important. With the continued expansion of rooftop PV installations, the need for reliable solutions to ensure year-round performance, safety, and protection of solar systems is also increasing. Currently, snow management for photovoltaic systems is still an emerging market with significant growth potential. We address this market gap with an innovative, patented, and now series-produced solution that enables efficient snow removal and helps maximize the performance of solar installations under challenging weather conditions.
What can you tell us about market trends?
S.K: The photovoltaic market is experiencing strong growth worldwide, driven by the increasing demand for renewable energy, energy independence, and sustainable solutions. In alpine regions, the expansion of solar installations is creating new challenges related to snow loads, system availability, and operational safety.
A key market trend is the focus on maximizing the efficiency and long-term performance of photovoltaic systems. As installations become larger and more valuable, innovative solutions that reduce maintenance efforts, improve safety, and ensure reliable energy production throughout the year are gaining importance.
TWISTOR responds to this trend by providing an innovative snow management solution that helps photovoltaic systems perform reliably even under challenging winter conditions.
What are the most innovative products/services marketed?
S.K: The most innovative product marketed by TWISTOR GmbH is the patented TWISTOR snow management system for photovoltaic installations. It is the first series-produced solution that enables the controlled removal of snow from solar roofs in a simple, safe, and efficient way.
Designed specifically for alpine and snow-prone regions, the system allows snow to be removed when needed, helping to increase annual energy production, reduce safety risks caused by snow loads and roof avalanches, and protect valuable photovoltaic installations.
With its unique combination of innovative technology, practical application, and suitability for challenging winter conditions, TWISTOR provides a new approach to ensuring the reliable operation of solar systems throughout the year.
What estimations do you have for the second half of 2026?
S.K: In the second half of 2026, TWISTOR GmbH expects continued market growth and increasing demand for innovative snow management solutions for photovoltaic systems. With the product now established as a series product, the focus will be on expanding market presence, strengthening partnerships with solar installers and roofing professionals, and increasing installations in alpine and snow-prone regions.
We anticipate further market adoption as the importance of maximizing photovoltaic system performance and ensuring safe operation throughout the year continues to grow. TWISTOR aims to establish itself as a leading solution provider for snow management in the growing renewable energy sector.
