Switzerland has achieved a remarkable feat by sourcing 100% of its electricity from low-carbon sources. This includes nuclear power, which accounts for almost half of the consumption, at about 45%, and hydropower, which makes up a similar portion. Solar power contributes a notable 10% to the clean energy mix. Over the past year, from August 2024 to July 2025, Switzerland not only supplied its own energy needs with entirely low-carbon sources, but also played a significant role as a net exporter of electricity, helping neighboring regions reduce their emissions. Looking ahead, Switzerland's next challenge will be to electrify other sectors such as transportation, heating, and industry, which will necessitate a substantial increase in electricity production.
Is Electricity Growing in Switzerland?
Currently, electricity consumption in Switzerland stands at 5491 kWh per person as of 2025. This is significantly lower than the historic peak of 10024 kWh per person recorded in 2001, indicating a drop of 4532 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per capita also saw a decrease from its past peak in 2001 of 9647 kWh, falling by 4156 kWh by 2025. This downward trend in electricity consumption, particularly from clean sources, raises concern as Switzerland looks to increase its electricity demand to support electrification in various sectors. Reversing this trend will be crucial to meet future energy needs sustainably.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Switzerland can further expand its existing nuclear and solar capacity. Given that nuclear power already generates a substantial portion of the country's clean energy, increasing its presence could significantly enhance overall electricity production. Similarly, solar power, currently generating about 10% of electricity, has great potential for growth due to advancements in technology and cost reductions. Embracing these reliable and sustainable energy sources will not only align Switzerland with its environmental goals but also ensure energy security as the nation moves towards greater electrification.
History
Switzerland's history of low-carbon electricity generation reflects a journey of ups and downs. In the mid-1980s, there was a significant contribution from nuclear power with an increase of 4.1 TWh, despite some periods of decreased hydro output, such as in 1984 with a drop of 5.3 TWh. Into the 1990s, hydro fluctuated, declining by 4 TWh in 1995 and 6 TWh in 1996, but saw a recovery in subsequent years, notably with increases in 1997 and 1999. The early 2000s continued this trend with more fluctuations before stabilizing somewhat in the 2010s. However, recent years have seen marked variability, especially in 2025 when hydroelectric output sharply declined by 22.6 TWh. This highlights the necessity of diversifying sources and bolstering nuclear and solar capacities to ensure a steady and increasing supply of green energy.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.