ElCom warns: electricity supply risk for winter 2026

Contesto

In brief - Iran war and Hormuz Strait blockade threaten Switzerland's electricity - ElCom: crucial EU deal for supply - Lower gas prices but risks persist ## Key facts - What: Risk to electricity supply security - When: Next winter 2026 - Where: Switzerland - Who: ElCom - Amount: 6.8 TWh imported last winter The war in Iran and the blockade of the Hormuz Strait pose a significant threat to Switzerland's electricity supply security for the upcoming winter. This is according to statements by Werner Luginbühl, president of the Federal Electricity Commission (ElCom), who emphasized the importance of an energy agreement with the EU to avoid a reduction in energy imports. Switzerland, in fact, imported electricity exceptionally to cover the temporary closure of the Gösgen nuclear power plant (SO) last winter, totaling 6.8 TWh, equivalent to about a fifth of the country's winter consumption. Luginbühl stated that without an agreement with the EU, Switzerland will suffer a significant reduction in energy imports, a highly problematic situation especially after the blackout experienced by Spain and Portugal in 2025. Gas power plants play a crucial role in Europe's supply security, but current gas storage levels are relatively low. The war in Iran raises doubts about the replenishment of stocks by the start of winter. ### Impact on cross-border workers Cross-border workers employed in Switzerland could be directly affected by any disruptions in energy supply. In particular, Swiss companies may have to face additional costs to ensure operational continuity, costs that could be passed on to workers through salary increases or reductions in benefits. Furthermore, any blackouts could influence the quality of life and productivity of cross-border workers, especially in areas such...

Dettagli operativi

The ElCom has also drawn lessons from the blackout that occurred in the Iberian Peninsula in April 2025. The final report, to which ElCom contributed, shows that several simultaneous causes were behind the general blackout. However, a similar incident seems unlikely in Switzerland today thanks to its specific production mix, its geographical situation, and its strong international interconnection. ElCom emphasizes the need to accelerate the maintenance and renewal of the electricity transmission network to ensure the maintenance of tension during the development of renewable energies. ### Preventive Measures For cross-border workers, it is important to be aware of the preventive measures that Swiss companies are adopting to ensure business continuity. Companies might implement emergency plans that include the use of backup generators and the reduction of non-essential energy consumption. Furthermore, Swiss authorities might introduce incentives for the use of renewable energies and for energy efficiency, which could positively influence the job market and offer new opportunities to cross-border workers. ### Comparison with the Previous Situation Last winter, Switzerland had to exceptionally import electricity to cover the temporary closure of the Gösgen nuclear power plant (SO). Imports amounted to 6.8 TWh, or about one-fifth of the winter national consumption. This demonstrates how Switzerland has become a net importer of energy during the winter, a situation that could repeat itself if alternative solutions are not found. Cross-border workers should be prepared for possible variations in working conditions and for potential changes in the energy policies of the companies they work for. ### Cost Analysis An increase in gas prices could have a significant impact o...

Punti chiave

For cross-border workers employed in Switzerland, it is crucial to be prepared for potential changes in working conditions and company energy policies. Here are some concrete steps that can be followed: 1. Monitor company communications: Swiss companies may communicate any changes in energy policies or operating costs. Cross-border workers should pay attention to these communications to be promptly informed. 2. Prepare for potential disruptions: In case of blackouts or reductions in energy supply, cross-border workers should be prepared for potential disruptions. This could include having backup generators or reducing non-essential energy consumption. 3. Take advantage of new opportunities: Swiss authorities may introduce incentives for the use of renewable energies and energy efficiency. Cross-border workers should be ready to take advantage of these opportunities to improve their position in the job market. 4. Use calculation tools: To have a clear idea of the financial implications, cross-border workers can use calculation tools such as the salary calculator to estimate any variations in operating costs and company benefits. 5. Participate in training programs: Swiss companies may offer training programs for workers on topics related to energy efficiency and new technologies. Cross-border workers should participate in these programs to improve their skills and their position in the job market. 6. Consult local authorities: Cross-border workers can consult local authorities to obtain updated information on energy policies and preventive measures adopted by companies. This can help to be better prepared for any changes. In summary, cross-border workers should be proactive in monitoring company communications, preparing for potential disruptions, and taking advan...

Punti chiave

[{"q":"What are ElCom's main concerns for the winter of 2026?","a":"ElCom's main concerns involve the risk of reduced energy imports due to the war in Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This could lead to a significant reduction in energy imports, especially without an agreement with the EU."},{"q":"How can cross-border workers prepare for potential energy disruptions?","a":"Cross-border workers can prepare by monitoring company communications, being ready for potential disruptions like blackouts, exploring new opportunities in the job market, and using calculation tools to estimate possible changes in operating costs."},{"q":"What preventive measures are Swiss companies adopting?","a":"Swiss companies are adopting preventive measures such as using backup generators, reducing non-essential energy consumption, and implementing emergency plans. Additionally, Swiss authorities may introduce incentives for the use of renewable energies and energy efficiency."}]

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