Electricity in Switzerland in 2023/2024

Switzerland has made impressive strides in its pursuit of a clean energy future by sourcing 100% of its electricity from low-carbon sources over the past twelve months, from October 2023 to September 2024. This notable achievement is primarily supported by hydropower and nuclear energy, which together constitute more than 90% of the country's electricity generation. Specifically, hydropower contributes to 47%, while nuclear energy adds another 44%, with solar energy providing a smaller but significant share of approximately 8%. Additionally, Switzerland's status as a significant net exporter of electricity helps neighboring countries reduce their emissions, underscoring the nation's role in promoting regional sustainability. The next major challenge for Switzerland is to further electrify other sectors such as transport, heating, and industry, which will considerably increase its electricity requirements.

Suggestions

To address the anticipated rise in electricity demand, Switzerland could enhance its capacity by expanding existing nuclear power infrastructure, in addition to supporting the growth of solar power. Given the established success and reliability of nuclear energy in Switzerland's power mix, increasing its contribution can ensure a steady supply of clean electricity. Meanwhile, solar energy, with its recent growth, also presents a reliable avenue to diversify and support electricity generation during peak demand periods. With these endeavors, Switzerland can bolster its clean energy portfolio to meet future needs without reverting to harmful fossil fuel sources that contribute to climate change and air pollution.

History

Throughout the history of Switzerland's low-carbon electricity evolution, several significant changes have been noted. In the mid-1980s, nuclear energy saw a rise with a 4.1 TWh increase in 1985. The late 1990s experienced fluctuating hydropower, with notable declines such as a 6 TWh drop in 1996, followed by a recovery in 1997 and 1999, with increases of 5.1 TWh and 6.4 TWh, respectively. The early 2000s continued to witness variability, including a substantial decrease of 5.8 TWh in hydropower in 2002. The mid-2000s highlighted a resurgence in nuclear power with a notable 4.5 TWh increase in 2006. More recent years have seen fluctuations in nuclear energy generation, with a notable decline of 4.5 TWh in 2015 followed by increases such as a 4.6 TWh rise in 2022. Hydropower remains significant, evidenced by a sharp 8 TWh increase in 2023, despite intermittent declines in other years. These historical trends underscore the importance of stable, reliable low-carbon sources like nuclear energy to secure Switzerland's energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources