Electricity in Switzerland in 2024

Switzerland has made remarkable progress in transitioning to a low-carbon electricity system, with over 97% of its electricity sourced from clean energy in 2024. Hydropower constitutes more than half of this green electricity, showcasing the country's strategic utilization of its abundant water resources. Nuclear energy, an essential low-carbon contributor, provides almost a third of Switzerland's electricity, underlining its critical role in reducing emissions. Solar energy, accounting for about 7%, further contributes to the country’s low-carbon goals. With fossil fuels accounting for just over 2% of the nation's electricity supply, Switzerland is also a significant net exporter of electricity, aiding neighboring countries in reducing their own emissions. However, to meet the anticipated increase in electricity demand from electrifying sectors like transport and heating, Switzerland will need to significantly enhance its electricity generation capacity.

Suggestions

Switzerland can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation primarily by expanding existing nuclear energy facilities, which are already significant contributors to the country’s clean energy mix. Nuclear power offers reliable and substantial amounts of electricity with minimal emissions, aligning perfectly with Switzerland's sustainability goals. Considering the need for increased electricity supply in future decades, scaling up wind and solar, alongside expanding nuclear capabilities, will be crucial. This approach not only ensures energy security and environmental benefits but also helps mitigate the adverse impacts of fossil fuels, such as climate change and air pollution.

History

Switzerland's history with low-carbon electricity has been marked by several significant changes over the years. In the mid-1980s, notable developments included a substantial increase in nuclear generation in 1985. However, the following years saw fluctuations, with hydropower facing reductions in the late 1980s and 1990s but rebounding with gains in some subsequent years. The early 2000s experienced swings in hydropower output, while nuclear energy saw a commendable uptick in 2006 and again in the late 2010s. Despite some declines in nuclear generation around 2015 and 2021, 2018 and 2022 marked significant increases, underscoring nuclear’s resilience and reliability. Most recently, hydropower showed a remarkable rise in 2023 and 2024, further solidifying Switzerland’s commitment to a clean, green electricity future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources