Alpiq welcomes the acceleration of procedures for renewable

Lausanne – Projects for power production from renewable energies can be completed more quickly following ratification by parliament of the law to accelerate procedures on Friday 26 September. Alpiq welcomes this decision. 

After about two years of discussions, the Federal Assembly has agreed to an amendment to the Energy Act, which expedites planning and licensing procedures for hydropower, solar and wind power plants. In particular, it facilitates the procedures for the 16 projects initiated by the Hydropower Round Table. Alpiq welcomes this political decision. “We are delighted with this solution, which will enable Alpiq to contribute to the urgent need to improve security of supply in the country, especially in winter,” says Amédée Murisier, Head of Switzerland at Alpiq.
 

Realise projects to contribute to the country’s energy security of supply

To accelerate procedures for renewable energies is a clear signal in favour of the realisation of the hydropower projects – such as the Gornerli project above Zermatt, the Moiry and Emosson elevations – as well as alpine solar and wind power projects. “This is in line with the clear vote of the people expressed in June 2024 by supporting the new Electricity Act,” continues Amédée Murisier. Improving the country’s power supply from renewable energies, especially in winter, was a big part of this reform, and Alpiq is committed to achieving this objective with its hydropower – including the Gornerli project, which accounts for around one third of the potential of all projects discussed at the Hydropower Round Table – solar and wind power projects. Dialogue with the different stakeholders is already ongoing within the context of these projects and it is time to find solutions together so the projects can be implemented quickly in the interests of everyone.