Open-technology power supply: Axpo study shows need for action in Switzerland

The scenarios clearly show that extending the operating life of existing nuclear power plants makes a significant contribution to a secure and cost-effective electricity supply. For this reason alone, it is crucial for companies and the population that the existing ban on nuclear power is lifted.

There are also prospects for long-term replacement. According to the study, new nuclear power plants could, for example, produce at comparable or lower costs than decentralized rooftop solar systems. While new nuclear power plants cost around 80-160 francs per megawatt hour, small rooftop PV systems - depending on their design - cost 130-190 francs per megawatt hour.

Winter electricity remains the biggest challenge

The importance of secure production in winter is particularly clear. Here, the study shows that nuclear energy is a comparatively cost-efficient option. The state subsidy requirement for additional winter electricity is significantly lower for nuclear power plants than for various alternatives.

At the same time, it is clear that around two thirds of the required winter electricity production in 2050 has not yet been built. The challenge is considerable - and is still not being taken seriously enough politically.

No technology can manage without support

The analysis makes it clear: no climate-friendly form of energy can manage today without state support. This applies to renewable energies as well as nuclear energy or climate-neutral gas-fired power plants.

In light of this, the call for exclusively self-funded solutions falls short of the mark. Rather, it is crucial that the various technologies are assessed under comparable conditions.

Open-mindedness towards technology instead of ideology

The results underline this: Switzerland's energy future is open to all technologies. It needs a combination of renewable energies, close integration into the European electricity supply and the option of replacing existing nuclear power plants. Even if this is not realistic until 2050, this is precisely when the existing nuclear power plants will be taken off the grid. We owe it to future generations to guarantee security of supply in the long term, even after 2050.

Clear expectations of the economy

In view of the increasing challenges, the Swiss economy is calling on politicians to take decisive action:

• Renewable energies to be expanded rapidly
• Electricity agreement with the EU to be concluded
• Nuclear power ban to be lifted and technology openness to be ensured

This is the only way Switzerland can guarantee a secure, affordable and climate-friendly electricity supply in the long term. If it fails to do so, the population's purchasing power, Swiss industry and climate targets will suffer.