Security of electricity supply is the number one priority
According to a survey, the Swiss want to ensure their security of electricity supply above all else, even if it means paying more.
Of those questioned, 53% place security of supply as their first priority, ahead of climate-neutral energy production (25%) and affordable electricity prices (21%). (Illustrative photo)
KEYSTONE/JEAN-CHRISTOPHE BOTT
The security of electricity supply is the first priority of the Swiss in terms of energy. A majority would therefore be ready to accept higher costs and restrictions, both in terms of climate protection and the environment.
Of those questioned, 53% place security of supply as their first priority, ahead of climate-neutral energy production (25%) and affordable electricity prices (21%).
To increase the national production of renewable energies, 67% of respondents would be ready to make concessions in terms of environmental protection. But at the same time, 59% want unbuilt areas to be used sparingly.
Hydraulic and photovoltaic acclaimed
Among the choices of technologies deemed relevant for the coming decades, hydraulic energy and photovoltaics are acclaimed, with nearly 100% approval each. Nearly three-quarters of respondents also consider wind power to be a key technology.
Respondents believe that other renewable energy sources, such as geothermal energy, biogas or hydrogen, will also gain in importance in the future. However, they are undecided about the use of gas-fired power plants for emergencies. The option to make the construction of nuclear power plants again possible does not, however, collect a majority.
Promotion of renewable energies
Security of supply should rather be achieved by promoting renewable energies. Almost all respondents (97%) consider this option to be “fairly” or “very sensible” in Switzerland.
In addition, 85% consider renewable energies as an active protection of the environment. And 70% would even be in favor of limiting appeal rights to speed up development. On the other hand, an equally large number of respondents are skeptical about the possibility of covering electricity needs solely with renewable energies.
Opinions differ on where the facilities should be built. Solar installations on existing infrastructure such as highways, dams, facades or roofs are unchallenged. The construction of large solar installations in the mountains on open grasslands is also supported at 51%.
Regarding dams, 65% of the population agrees to build them in places where there was once a glacier or in a place where they are melting due to global warming. Although the majority of wind turbines are considered necessary, only a small majority (55%) would approve of building them in a place visible from their own balcony.
For incentives, against bans
According to the survey, a large majority of the population is in favor of promoting renewable energies, but also energy efficiency. Many consumers (89%) find it ‘good’ or ‘somewhat good’ to invest in energy production themselves.
Tax incentives and incentive taxes with reimbursement to the most efficient are also popular measures (respectively 82% and 70%). Conversely, regulations and prohibitions are much less appreciated (46%).
The survey was conducted online and by phone among 1,016 people fluent in at least one of the country’s three main languages.
Posted today at 9:18 p.m.
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