How does electricity storage work in Switzerland?

Electricity storage is not separately defined in the Swiss legislative framework. The biggest obstacle for electricity companies is to obtain a construction permit and a concession for the operation of a pumped storage plant, which is granted for a maximum of 80 years.

Is Switzerland able to store energy?

The global challenge is not only to produce more energy from renewable sources, but also to be able to store it. With its hydroelectric power plants in the Alps and innovative projects, Switzerland is contributing to the search for solutions for the efficient, long-term storage of electricity.

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.

Will Switzerland become Europe's 'electricity battery'?

As the Alpine glaciers slowly melt away, Switzerland will have the opportunity to build new dams and artificial lakes in the mountains. This will increase energy storage capacity in the Alps, strengthening Switzerland’s role as Europe’s “electricity battery”.

How does a cost-covering fee affect electricity production in Switzerland?

Further, the introduction of a cost-covering fee for feed-in to the electricity grid, in order to subsidise new renewable energy sources in Switzerland, disadvantaged traditional hydro electricity producers. As a result, high prices during peak load times dropped, which substantially lowered the revenue stream of pumped storage plants.

How does Swiss Energy Vault work?

The Swiss start-up Energy Vault follows the same principle as pumping and turbines. But instead of water, it uses concrete blocks. When there is a surplus of green electricity, these “bricks” are hoisted on top of each other to form a 120-metre tower. They are then “dropped” using gravity to generate electricity.