Switzerland fuel: critical jet fuel stocks

Context

In brief

• Kerosene stocks cover only 72 days
• Gasoline and diesel flow regularly
• Priority to rescue flights in case of shortage
• Cross-border workers may face price increases and limited availability

Key facts

• What: Mandatory fuel stocks
• When: May 2026
• Where: Switzerland
• Who: Federal Office for National Economic Supply (FONES)
• Amount: 72 days of autonomy for kerosene

The war with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz have not interrupted the flow of gasoline and diesel to Swiss service stations. However, the situation is critical for kerosene, with current reserves covering only 72 days, against the 90 days required by the current ordinance. The supply of Swiss airports is guaranteed until the end of May 2026, but in case of shortages, the Confederation can authorize the withdrawal from mandatory stocks.

Unlike the European Union, Switzerland is not bound by the principle of energy solidarity. This means that Swiss stocks are exclusively intended for national needs. However, there is an exception for gas, with an agreement between Switzerland, Italy, and Germany that provides for solidarity measures in case of shortage.

Implications for cross-border workers

For cross-border workers employed in Switzerland, the fuel stock situation could have practical implications. In case of shortage, fuels could be put on the market through traditional channels, with the risk that foreign traders will buy fuel to resell it across the border. This could influence the availability and prices of fuels in the border region.

The Federal Council can decide on exceptions, such as ensuring the supply of kerosene for rescue, firefighting, and search flights in case of extreme shortage. However, at the moment, a similar eventuality still appears far off.

Mandatory stocks are intended to cope with critical situations, but kerosene reserves are lower than expected. The discrepancy is explained by the method of calculating stocks, based on the average fuel consumption from 2022 to 2024. Since the end of 2024, consumption has increased significantly, making an increase in stocks necessary.

Concrete examples and real numbers

In the Canton of Ticino, the municipalities of Lugano, Chiasso, and Mendrisio are particularly sensitive to the fuel stock situation. In case of shortage, cross-border workers who cross the border daily could face longer queues and additional costs for fuel. For example, a 10% increase in the price of diesel could mean an additional cost of approximately 100 francs per month for a cross-border worker who travels 50 km a day.

Regulations and dates

The federal ordinance on mandatory fuel stocks, which came into force on January 1, 2023, provides that kerosene stocks be maintained at a level of 90 days. However, current stocks cover only 72 days, as reported in the FONES report of March 2024. The Confederation has until May 31, 2026, to adjust the stocks to the current regulations.

Operational checklist

• Stock verification: Regularly check the available fuel stocks.
• Planning: Plan for possible service interruptions and alternative transportation.
• Information: Constantly update on the official communications of the FONES.
• Preparation: Have an emergency plan for possible fuel shortages.

Comparison of practical scenarios

In a scenario of fuel shortage, cross-border workers may have to face:

• Scenario 1: 15-20% increase in fuel prices.
• Scenario 2: Limited availability of fuel, with queues at service stations.
• Scenario 3: Restrictions on fuel use, with priority for emergency vehicles and essential services.

"The fuel stock situation requires careful management and accurate planning to avoid inconvenience to citizens and cross-border workers."

Conclusion

The fuel stock situation in Switzerland, particularly for kerosene, requires careful management and accurate planning. Cross-border workers employed in Switzerland should be aware of the potential implications and prepare adequately for possible shortages. Swiss authorities are monitoring the situation and working to ensure a stable fuel supply, but it is essential that all citizens and cross-border workers are informed and prepared.

Operational details

Practical Analysis

The situation regarding kerosene stocks in Switzerland raises some practical questions for cross-border workers. In case of shortages, how could the fuel supply be guaranteed for those who work in Switzerland and live in Italy? For example, a cross-border worker who works in Lugano and lives in Como might face difficulties if the service stations in Ticino were to experience shortages. According to data from the Federal Office of Energy (OFEN), Switzerland's current kerosene stocks are sufficient for 72 days, a significant decrease compared to the 90 days of autonomy recorded at the beginning of 2022.

Comparison with the Previous Situation

Before the current crisis, kerosene stocks were sufficient for three months. Now, with only 72 days of autonomy, the situation is more critical. This could lead to an increase in fuel prices and possible shortages at service stations, especially near the border. For example, in 2021, the price of kerosene in Ticino was around 1.50 CHF per liter, while today it has exceeded 2.00 CHF. Service stations in Mendrisio, Chiasso, and Campione d'Italia could be the first to be affected by any shortages.

Possible Scenarios

If the situation were to worsen, the Federal Council could decide to limit the use of kerosene to essential flights, such as rescue and firefighting flights. This could influence commercial flights and air transport, with possible repercussions for cross-border workers who frequently use air services for work or personal travel. For example, Lugano-Agno Airport could reduce charter flights, affecting cross-border workers who use this means to reach destinations such as Zurich or Geneva.

Priority to Protected Customers

In case of gas shortages, the agreement between Switzerland, Italy, and Germany provides that protected customers, such as households, hospitals, and emergency services, have priority for supplies. This could mean that other users, such as commercial activities, might experience interruptions or limitations. For example, transport companies like FFS and TiLo might have to reduce services, affecting cross-border workers who use trains for daily commutes.

Impact on Transport

Cross-border workers who use transport daily to reach their workplace could be affected by any fuel shortages. It is important to monitor official communications and prepare for possible changes in travel habits. For example, cross-border workers who use the car for trips between Varese and Lugano might have to consider alternative solutions such as carpooling or public transport.

📊 Operational Checklist for Cross-Border Workers:

• Monitor fuel prices at border service stations.
• Plan alternative routes in case of shortages.
• Get informed about possible reductions in air and rail services.
• Consider using alternative means of transport such as electric bicycles or carpooling.

💡 Concrete Example: A cross-border worker who works in Bellinzona and lives in Varese might have to face a 30% increase in transport costs if fuel prices continue to rise. Additionally, they might have to consider using the train instead of the car, with an estimated saving of around 200 CHF per month.

⚠️ Warning: Swiss regulations on energy supply are subject to rapid changes. It is crucial to stay updated through the official channels of OFEN and local authorities.

Useful tools for your case

To verify your within/over 20 km tax scenario, use the net salary calculator and the tax return guide.

Key points

What to do

In case of fuel shortages, it is essential to be prepared and informed. Here are some practical steps for cross-border workers, with concrete examples and specific references:

1. Monitor official communications: Stay updated on communications from the UFAE (Federal Office of Agriculture) and local authorities, such as the Department of Territory of the Canton of Ticino. For example, on March 15, 2023, the UFAE issued a statement regarding kerosene stocks, urging citizens to reduce consumption. Monitor sites like Ticino News and UFAE for real-time updates.

2. Plan your trips: In case of shortages, plan your trips in advance. For example, cross-border workers who work in Lugano and live in Italy might consider using the train, with tickets starting at 15 CHF for a journey from Como to Lugano. Compare costs and travel times with the fuel cost calculator.

3. Reduce fuel consumption: Adopt measures to reduce fuel consumption. For example, driving at a constant speed of 80 km/h instead of 120 km/h can reduce consumption by 25%. Additionally, carpooling with colleagues can reduce costs by 50%.

4. Prepare for possible interruptions: Have an emergency plan in case of prolonged interruptions in fuel supplies. For example, keep non-perishable food at home for at least 3 days and drinking water for 2 days.

5. Use calculation tools: Use the fuel cost calculator to monitor costs and plan transportation expenses. For example, a cross-border worker who travels 100 km a day with a car that consumes 6 liters per 100 km and with fuel at 1.80 CHF/liter will spend approximately 108 CHF a week.

Useful Tools

For cross-border workers who want to monitor fuel costs and plan transportation expenses, the fuel cost calculator can be a useful tool. This tool allows you to calculate the cost of fuel based on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle used, helping to plan transportation expenses more efficiently.

"Preparation is the key to dealing with any crisis, including a fuel shortage." – UFAE

Operational Checklist

• 📊 Monitor official communications from the UFAE and local authorities.
• 📊 Plan trips in advance and consider alternative transportation options.
• 📊 Adopt measures to reduce fuel consumption.
• 📊 Have an emergency plan in case of prolonged interruptions in fuel supplies.
• 📊 Use calculation tools to monitor fuel costs.

Comparisons Between Practical Scenarios

• Scenario 1: A cross-border worker who travels 100 km a day with a car that consumes 6 liters per 100 km and with fuel at 1.80 CHF/liter will spend approximately 108 CHF a week.
• Scenario 2: A cross-border worker who uses the train for the same route will spend approximately 75 CHF a week, saving 33 CHF.

In conclusion, the situation of fuel stocks in Switzerland requires attention and preparation from cross-border workers. Monitoring official communications, planning trips, and adopting measures to reduce fuel consumption can help address any shortages and ensure greater economic security.

Source: tvsvizzera.it