Will the Swiss power sector be integrated into the European energy system?

There is currently no overarching electricity agreement (or “Stromabkommen”) with the European Union that defines the integration of the Swiss power sector into the larger European energy system, and it is unclear whether such an agreement is even possible in the next three to five years.

How does Switzerland contribute to the future of electricity storage?

With its hydroelectric power plants in the Alps and innovative projects, Switzerland is contributing to the search for solutions for the efficient, long-term storage of electricity. A journalist from Ticino resident in Bern, I write on scientific and social issues with reports, articles, interviews and analysis.

How stable is the Swiss power sector?

The Swiss power sector—as well as the broader European energy system—features a relatively stable equilibrium, with loads having been mostly flat for the past ten years.

Are Swiss power stations better than other countries?

Compared to other Alpine countries, such as Austria, Germany and Italy, Swiss power stations generally have larger water-retention basins and are therefore able to operate over longer periods, notes the Association of Swiss Electricity Companies.

Is Switzerland able to store energy?

The global challenge is not only to produce more energy from renewable sources, but also to be able to store it. With its hydroelectric power plants in the Alps and innovative projects, Switzerland is contributing to the search for solutions for the efficient, long-term storage of electricity.

Is Switzerland a hub of power flows?

While this may be easy in theory—Switzerland acts as a major hub of power flows—it will not be easy in practice. All matter of hurdles, from evolving regulations to changing energy sources, must first be overcome. Switzerland currently relies on hydro and nuclear power to meet the bulk of its energy demand.