Switzerland at risk of blackout: what changes for cross-border workers
Switzerland faces electricity shortages in 2026. Here are the implications for those working in Ticino and living in Italy
Contesto
In brief - Switzerland faces electricity shortages in 2026 - Hormuz Strait blockade threatens supply - Gösgen plant was offline for 10 months ## Key facts - What: Risk of electricity shortages in Switzerland - When: Winter 2026 - Where: Switzerland, Europe - Who: Federal Electricity Commission (ElCom) - Amount: 13% of Switzerland's electricity demand covered by Gösgen Switzerland risks running out of electricity next winter? If the Hormuz Strait blockade were to persist, this danger exists. This was stated today by the Federal Electricity Commission ElCom. For ten months, between May 2025 and March 2026, the Swiss nuclear power plant Gösgen (SO) was offline. This was due to a critical issue detected during a revision. Only in March did the plant, which in winter covers approximately 13% of Switzerland's electricity demand, resume production. Thanks to imports, mainly nuclear energy from France, Switzerland has nevertheless managed to get through the cold season without difficulty. Now, however, the war in Iran introduces new uncertainties. Yes, because today at a press conference, the Federal Electricity Commission (ElCom) announced that the blockade of the Hormuz Strait also poses a risk to Switzerland's electricity supply security. Specifically, the issue concerns the availability and price of liquefied natural gas (LNG) used in power plants to produce electricity. In an 'extreme scenario,' there is a risk of electricity shortages. ### Impact on cross-border workers For cross-border workers who work in Ticino and live in Italy, a potential blackout could have significant consequences. Power outages could affect the regularity of working hours and public transport, making daily commuting more difficult. Furthermore, an increase in energy prices could reflect on sal...
Dettagli operativi
Lessons from the Iberian Blackout The Swiss have also learned 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 at the origin of the general blackout. 'A similar incident seems unlikely in Switzerland today due to its specific production mix, its geographical situation, and its strong international interconnection,' ElCom emphasized. However, the conclusions of the report must be taken into account. This is particularly about ensuring the maintenance of voltage along the electricity network to preserve its stability during the development of renewable energies. In this context, ElCom underlines the need to accelerate the maintenance and renewal of the electricity transport network. About 60% of the approximately 12,000 pylons are between 50 and 80 years old. ### Practical Implications For cross-border workers, it is important to be prepared for possible power outages. Here are some practical tips: - Check transport schedules: In case of a blackout, public transport may experience delays or cancellations. It is useful to monitor real-time updates. - Plan alternative routes: If public transport is interrupted, it may be necessary to use private means or share the journey with colleagues. - Prepare to work remotely: If the company allows it, it is useful to have a plan to work from home in case of emergency. ### Comparison with the Previous Situation Before the closure of the Gösgen power plant, Switzerland had a more stable electricity production capacity. The reopening of the power plant has improved the situation, but the risk related to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz introduces a new variable. For cross-border workers, this means that it is im...
Punti chiave
What to do now For cross-border workers in Ticino, it is crucial to be prepared for any emergencies. Here is a checklist of concrete actions: 1. Monitor updates: Use official apps and websites to stay informed about possible power outages or changes in transport. 2. Plan alternative routes: Identify alternative routes to reach your workplace in case of public transport disruptions. 3. Prepare an emergency kit: Have a flashlight, spare batteries, and a portable charger for your phone on hand. 4. Check company policies: Verify if the company has a plan for remote work in case of an emergency. 5. Inform yourself about insurance: Check if your health insurance covers any emergencies related to power outages. ### Useful tools For further information and to best plan your situation, cross-border workers can use the salary calculator to estimate the impact of any changes on their income. Additionally, it is useful to consult the insurance comparator to find the coverage best suited to your needs. ### Conclusion The current situation requires attention and preparation. Although the risk of a blackout is considered extreme, it is important that cross-border workers are ready to manage any power outages and changes in working hours. By using the right tools and planning ahead, it is possible to face any emergencies with greater peace of mind. Source: tio.ch
Punti chiave
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What happens if there's a blackout in Switzerland?
- In case of a blackout, public transport may experience delays or cancellations. It's important to monitor real-time updates and plan alternative routes.
- How can I prepare for a potential blackout?
- You can prepare by monitoring transport updates, planning alternative routes, preparing an emergency kit, and checking company policies for remote work.
- What are the implications for cross-border workers?
- Implications include possible delays in transport, changes in working hours, and a potential increase in energy costs that could affect salaries.