Switzerland’s National Solar Energy Goals
Switzerland aims to produce 24 terawatt-hours (TWh) of solar power annually by 2040, a target driven by the country’s push to reduce fossil fuel reliance, address the energy gap from nuclear plant closures, and enhance its overall energy security.
Outlined in the Federal Council’s 2021 Energy Perspectives report, Switzerland’s energy strategy is centered on transitioning to renewables and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Solar power is a cornerstone of this plan, targeting 24 TWh by 2040 and 34 TWh by 2050. This expansion is part of a wider effort to boost total renewable energy production to 63 TWh by 2050.
Switzerland has already made significant strides in solar energy, with installed capacity jumping from 420 megawatts (MW) in 2012 to 5,718 MW in 2022. Consequently, solar now accounts for 6% of the country’s electricity production—a substantial increase from just 0.2% in 2012. In 2022 alone, Switzerland added another 1.1 gigawatts (GW) of new solar capacity.
To support this expansion, the Swiss government has implemented several key measures. These include a CHF 600 million subsidy program for building-integrated photovoltaic systems and a new law designed to streamline approval processes and provide financial incentives for alpine solar projects.
Alpine solar farms are a crucial part of Switzerland’s solar strategy. These high-altitude installations offer distinct advantages, such as higher solar radiation and lower temperatures that improve panel efficiency. Critically, they also generate significant power during winter, when electricity demand is highest. For more insights on Switzerland’s solar initiatives, you can explore this Switzerland Solar Panel Manufacturing Report.
Achieving its goal of 24 TWh of solar power by 2040 is a key component of Switzerland’s broader transition to renewable energy. With dedicated government support and innovative projects underway, the country is on a clear path to hitting this target and securing a sustainable energy future.
