Energy Strategy 2050 adopted
The Energy Strategy 2050 has survived the final vote in parliament.
The National Council approved the first package of measures for the Energy Strategy 2050 in the final vote by 120 votes to 72 with 6 abstentions, the Council of States by 35 votes to 6 with 3 abstentions. The majority of the SVP parliamentary group and some FDP representatives voted against.
The energy companies and associations expressed their relief. The Association of Swiss Electricity Companies (VSE) welcomes the fact that the adoption of the Energy Strategy 2050 (ES2050) by Parliament has once again created a clear framework, as it announced in a media communiqué. In particular, he sees the support for existing large-scale hydropower as an important step for the Swiss energy system. The association also welcomes the lifetime limitation for nuclear power plants and the decision to give equal weight to landscape protection and renewable energies.
Swisspower is calling for rapid implementation of the measures. The group of companies, which includes 22 Swiss municipal utilities and regional utility companies, also expects the second package of measures to improve the framework conditions for the domestic production of renewable energy and effective incentive systems to steer energy consumption.
Referendum threatened
Various groups, including the SVP, have threatened to file a referendum. The SVP wants to decide this in the next few days. Should it come about, the population will have the final say.
