Switzerland aims to generate 24 terawatt-hours (TWh) of solar energy annually by 2040, a significant increase from the current 4.8 TWh. This ambitious target, highlighted in articles like Swiss solar energy targets: 2040’s Incredible 24 TWh Goal, is part of a broader push towards renewable energy. To achieve this, the Swiss government is implementing a new subsidy scheme that incentivizes photovoltaic (PV) systems with battery storage. This initiative reflects a growing global trend towards integrating energy storage solutions to maximize the effectiveness of renewable energy generation.
The Swiss Federal Council has announced a legislative amendment to the Energy Act, introducing a two-tier subsidy system for solar energy. This system will offer higher compensation for PV systems that incorporate battery storage, alongside a basic feed-in tariff (FIT) for all solar installations. The government has also bolstered the budget for FITs by CHF 600 million ($650 million) to support this initiative. You can find more details on Switzerland’s solar initiatives at Switzerland Solar News Archives – PVknowhow.com.
Subsidy Scheme for the Swiss Solar Energy Target
The new subsidy scheme provides additional compensation for PV systems with battery storage, encouraging energy storage and seamless integration into the grid. Systems without battery storage or with smaller battery capacities will receive a lower FIT of CHF 0.10 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). However, systems with larger battery capacities, capable of storing at least half of their annual solar power production, will receive a higher FIT of CHF 0.20 per kWh. This tiered approach aims to incentivize the adoption of battery storage, crucial for grid stability and maximizing the use of solar energy.
Furthermore, a basic FIT of CHF 0.03 per kWh will be available for all PV systems, helping to offset initial investment costs. This comprehensive approach, detailed in articles like Switzerland solar energy Aims for 24 TWh Annual Generation by 2040, is designed to encourage broader adoption of solar energy across Switzerland.
This subsidy scheme aims to promote energy storage and grid integration, reducing the need for new power lines and potentially lowering electricity prices for consumers. The Swiss government plans to introduce this scheme in mid-2024, subject to parliamentary approval.
Swiss Energy Strategy 2050: Supporting the Swiss Solar Energy Target
Switzerland’s focus on solar energy is a key component of its Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to transition the country to a low-carbon energy system. The strategy focuses on increasing the share of renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030, an ambitious goal in line with global climate targets.
Solar energy is expected to play a vital role in achieving these objectives. According to the Swiss Energy Strategy 2050, solar power is projected to become the largest source of electricity in Switzerland by 2050, accounting for 50% of the country’s total electricity generation. This underscores the importance of initiatives like the new subsidy scheme in driving the growth of the solar sector.
Switzerland has already made significant strides in expanding its solar capacity. In 2022, the country installed a record 1.2 gigawatts (GW) of new solar capacity, reaching a total installed capacity of 6.2 GW. This growth is projected to continue, fueled by the new subsidy scheme and other government initiatives. For further insights into Swiss solar targets, see Swiss solar energy targets: 2040’s Incredible 24 TWh Goal.
Economic and Environmental Impact of the Swiss Solar Energy Target
The expansion of solar energy in Switzerland is expected to yield substantial economic and environmental benefits. A study by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy suggests that the solar industry could create up to 20,000 new jobs by 2030. Moreover, solar energy could reduce Switzerland’s greenhouse gas emissions by up to 10 million tons annually, significantly contributing to the country’s climate goals.
Switzerland’s new subsidy scheme for solar energy represents a significant step in the country’s transition to a sustainable energy future. By incentivizing the installation of PV systems with battery storage, the Swiss government is ensuring that solar energy plays a central role in the nation’s energy landscape.
