Switzerland: The era of mega batteries begins (cross-border guide)

Context

In a nutshell

• Installation of large batteries for grid stability
• Kappel plant operating with 80 MWh
• Project Gurtnellen coming in September
• Private investments without state subsidies

Key facts

• What : Large-scale electrical storage systems
• When: Projects in progress until 2030
• Where: Kappel (Solothurn), Gurtnellen (Uri) and all of Switzerland
• Who: Private investors
• Current capacity: At least 150 MWh installed
• Expected capacity 2030: 4,350 MWh additional

The Confederation is preparing for a significant technological change in the energy sector. Research by the public broadcaster SRF confirms that, in the coming years, the Swiss territory will see the installation of an extensive network of storage systems. The aim is to close the historical gap with neighbouring countries, which already have capacity in the order of gigawatt hours. The first major milestone was reached in Kappel, in the canton of Solothurn, where in June a system capable of storing 80 megawatt-hours (MWh) came into operation, enough to cover the needs of 30,000 domestic economies for two hours. The record will soon be surpassed by the plant in Gurtnellen, in the canton of Uri, which in September will supply energy to almost 120,000 households for a similar period. This development is fundamental for the management of the electricity grid and for the integration of renewable sources. ### Market dynamics and infrastructure The business model behind these

Operational details

Integration and Complementarity of Hydroelectric Power The expansion of electrochemical storage systems should not be seen as a replacement for traditional hydroelectric plants but as an integration. Christian Schaffner, director of the Energy Science Center at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, emphasizes that batteries are not intended to solve winter deficits but to manage daily balancing between production and consumption. This alleviates the workload of alpine pump storage plants, allowing for better preservation of seasonal water reserves. For cross-border workers living and working in Canton Ticino, this infrastructural development represents a stability element for the local economy. Although batteries are still a topic little discussed by the general public, their deployment is extremely rapid: the time between investment decision and commissioning is estimated to be between one and two years. This speed enables agile responses to the changing needs of the Swiss energy market. Safety is another advantage, as these facilities are less controversial compared to other forms of energy production like wind or nuclear. Growth is steady across the territory: by the end of the year, the Swiss electrical system will see an addition of another 280 MWh of capacity, marking a decisive step towards energy independence. For those wishing to understand how these dynamics influence resource management or seeking financial advice in an evolving market context, it is useful to consult the tax calculator to evaluate the impact of changes on energy and wage costs. The private sector is demonstrating remarkable adaptability, transforming the challenge of photovoltaic energy into a sustainable business opportunity without burdening public finances, while ensuring a more resilient grid against demand fluctuations.

Key points

Future prospects and planning for 2030

The national development plan is ambitious: between now and 2030 the construction of plants for a further 4,350 MWh is planned. An impressive theoretical capacity, capable of powering over four million household economies for two hours. This confirms that the battery era is just beginning and that Switzerland is catching up fast. Private companies are already announcing new projects on a regular basis, creating an investment ecosystem that strengthens the national electricity system. Although the batteries are not designed for the winter peak, their role in managing daily fluctuations is destined to become central. For residents and cross-border workers, this means greater stability of the electricity system and a potential mitigation of price spikes linked to massive solar energy inputs. The Swiss energy transition is therefore played out on two tables: hydroelectric, which remains the backbone for the cold season, and mega batteries, which optimise distribution over 24 hours. To monitor how these developments may reflect on the cost of living in Ticino or to manage their savings in this transition period, workers can use the calcolatore fiscale to check their contribution situation. The stability of the electricity grid is an indirect but fundamental factor for

Source: tvsvizzera.it