Swiss photovoltaic energy storage policy

What are Switzerland's new energy regulations?

Switzerland is expanding rules for rooftop solar, energy storage, and energy communities to expand self-consumption and ease pressure on the grid. The new regulations, set to take effect in 2026, introduce updated tariffs, encourage battery storage, and allow local electricity trading.

Does Switzerland need a solar power system?

Hydropower, which accounted for 56% of the generation mix in 2023, has largely decarbonized Switzerland's electricity. This year, Swiss solar will provide 6 TWh of electricity, accounting for about 10% of annual consumption. By 2035, new renewable energy must supply 35 TWh per year, mostly from solar electricity.

How will new solar regulations affect Switzerland's electricity grid?

“The new regulations encourage the temporary storage of solar production peaks, which helps relieve the electricity grids,” said Swissolar. Switzerland installed approximately 1.78 GW of new PV capacity in 2024, according to provisional figures from Swissolar.

Does Switzerland support pumped storage operators?

Despite the government’s objectives defined in the Energy Strategy 2050, there is currently no direct support via subsidy for pumped storage operators in Switzerland.

What is the future of electricity storage in Switzerland?

One important pillar of this strategy is the further development of electricity storage capacity in Switzerland. In the next years, three large-scale pumped hydro storage power plants will be connected to the grid. The first, the Limmern pumped storage plant (1 GW), should become operational in 2016.

How much electricity does Swiss solar produce a year?

This year, Swiss solar will provide 6 TWh of electricity, accounting for about 10% of annual consumption. By 2035, new renewable energy must supply 35 TWh per year, mostly from solar electricity. Swissolar estimates PV will produce 45 TWh per year by 2050, covering about 50% of the nation's electricity consumption.