Legislative Changes Proposed to Remove Swiss New Reactor Ban

Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 16, Switzerland’s Federal Council has introduced draft legislation to remove the ban on new nuclear power plant construction, effective since January 1, 2018, to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy supply. The proposal aligns with efforts to meet growing energy demands while prioritizing environmental sustainability.

Following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi accident in Japan, Switzerland adopted the Energy Strategy 2050, planning a nuclear phase-out and increased use of renewables and hydropower, with temporary reliance on fossil fuels and imports. The country’s four nuclear reactors currently provide about one-third of its electricity, operating under unlimited licenses if safety standards are met.

In March 2024, the “Electricity For Everyone At All Times (Stop Blackouts)” initiative was passed, amending the constitution to guarantee a stable electricity supply and allow climate-friendly energy production. This opened the door to revisiting the nuclear construction ban.

The Federal Council’s indirect counter-proposal to the initiative supports amending the Nuclear Energy Act to permit licensing of new nuclear plants, avoiding a constitutional change. The Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communication (DETEC) noted: “The counter-proposal will repeal two provisions prohibiting the granting of general permits for new nuclear power plants and for modifications to existing nuclear power plants.”

DETEC clarified: “This means that general permits may in principle be granted again for nuclear power plants in the future.” The proposal, under consultation from December 2024 to April 2025, provides energy flexibility without mandating new nuclear projects.

Hans-Ulrich Bigler, President of the Swiss Nuclear Forum, said: “Electricity demand will increase to over 90 TWh by 2050 - just think of electrification, digitalisation, and artificial intelligence. Given climate targets and the geopolitical situation, gas-fired power plants are not a sustainable option, and the expansion of renewables is stalling. It is high time for technology-neutral planning.” The proposal supports Switzerland’s goal of balancing energy reliability with sustainability.