Switzerland's electricity landscape in 2024 is an exemplary model for achieving low-carbon power generation, as more than 97% of its electricity comes from clean sources. Of this, hydropower provides the backbone, generating over half of the nation's electricity, while nuclear energy contributes almost a third. Solar energy is on the rise, contributing around 7.5% to the electricity mix, with geothermal and biofuels making up the remainder of low-carbon sources. Fossil fuels, responsible for climate change and air pollution, account for just a small fraction, close to 2.3%. Furthermore, Switzerland's status as a significant net exporter of electricity enables its neighboring countries to lower their own emissions, showcasing the potential regional benefits of Switzerland’s clean energy dominance. The next big challenge for Switzerland is the electrification of various sectors such as transport, heating, and industry, which will demand significantly more electricity in the future.
Is Electricity Growing in Switzerland?
When examining whether electricity consumption is growing in Switzerland, recent data reveals a reduction in per capita consumption to 8,871 kWh in 2024, compared to a high of 10,024 kWh per person in 2001. This decrease of over 1,150 kWh per person signals a shrinkage in electricity use over time. Similarly, the nation's clean electricity generation per capita has fallen to 8,668 kWh, down almost 1,000 kWh from its peak in 2001. This decline in low-carbon electricity generation showcases a concerning trend, particularly in a time when expanding clean electricity is crucial to meet future demands due to increasing electrification and technological advancement.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Switzerland can focus on expanding existing nuclear infrastructure, as nuclear plants already contribute significantly to the electricity mix. Expanding these sustainable energy sources would increase electricity supply without raising carbon emissions. This strategy should include installing additional solar capacity, complementing hydroelectric and nuclear power to diversify energy sources. Furthermore, investing in research and development for more efficient and advanced nuclear technologies can ensure sustainable growth and energy security while fulfilling the increasing electricity demands from the transition to electrified sectors and the growth of artificial intelligence technologies.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Switzerland reveals periods of notable fluctuations. In the mid-1980s to late 1990s, significant changes were seen, with both hydropower and nuclear contributing variably. Notable increases and decreases in hydroelectric generation occurred, such as a 5.1 TWh boost in 1997 and similar dynamic shifts in 1999 and 2001. Nuclear power saw substantial growth in years like 1985 with a 4.1 TWh increase, showcasing its integral role over the decades. However, critical evaluations are necessary for instances of significant nuclear downgrades, as seen in 2015 and 2021, to ensure consistent low-carbon energy production. More recently, nuclear energy rebounded in 2018 and 2022, reinforcing its vital role in the green energy mix. Hydropower also saw a resurgence with increases like the recent 7.5 TWh in 2024, emphasizing its ongoing importance in maintaining sustainable electricity production. Overall, the investments in robust nuclear and hydro infrastructure have been instrumental in Switzerland's clean energy achievements.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.