Secure energy supply in Switzerland

Contesto

In brief - Middle East conflict blocks a fifth of global oil - Diesel prices +8.6%, heating oil +40% in Switzerland - Switzerland's supply secure, guaranteed ## Key facts - What: Increase in oil and gas prices - When: 28 February - 9 March 2026 - Where: Switzerland - Who: Avenergy, Energy Supply Security Steering Committee - Amount: Diesel +8.6%, heating oil +40% The attack on Iran and its retaliation have caused an increase in gasoline and diesel prices in Switzerland as well. The conflict in the Middle East has disrupted global oil and gas transport. The consequences are also felt in Switzerland, although the country does not directly depend on the Persian Gulf for its energy supply. Here is where the fossil fuels consumed in Switzerland come from. The price of oil – and even more so that of natural gas – has skyrocketed following the military offensive by Israel and the United States against Iran, and the subsequent retaliation by Tehran. Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, a small maritime corridor that separates the Arabian Peninsula from the Iranian coast. It threatens to strike ships attempting to cross it. This means that about a fifth of the world's crude oil trade is blocked, as ships carrying oil and gas produced in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and other Middle Eastern countries cannot move. ### Supply stability The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has repercussions for all oil-consuming countries, including those – like Switzerland – that do not depend on crude oil passing through the strait. Even if oil producers were to quickly resume normal activities, the market will remain unstable for months, according to analysts. This also applies to Switzerland. Diesel and heating oil prices have increased by 8.6% and 40% respectively between 28 February a...

Dettagli operativi

Implications for cross-border workers and residents in Ticino The conflict in the Middle East and the rise in oil and gas prices have repercussions for cross-border workers and residents in Ticino. While supply is secure, energy costs could increase, affecting the cost of living. ### Comparison with the previous situation Before the conflict, oil and gas prices were stable, with a secure and constant supply. The current situation has led to an increase in prices, but not to shortages. This is a significant change compared to the stability of the previous months. ### Future scenarios If the conflict were to persist, prices could remain high for months, further influencing the cost of living. However, Switzerland, thanks to its diversification of supply sources, is in a relatively secure position compared to other countries more dependent on Middle Eastern oil. ### Impact on transport and industry Petroleum-derived products cover almost half of Switzerland's energy needs (46% in 2024). They are fundamental for transport, building heating, and industrial processes. An increase in prices could therefore have a significant impact on these sectors. Natural gas, which accounts for about 12% of Swiss demand, is mainly used to heat homes and for cooking. In this case too, a price increase could influence the cost of living, especially for cross-border workers who live in Ticino and work in Italy, where energy costs could be higher. ## Recommended tools For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.

Punti chiave

What cross-border workers should do Cross-border workers residing in Ticino and working in Italy should closely monitor the evolution of oil and gas prices. It is advisable to adopt measures to reduce energy consumption, such as using energy-efficient appliances and improving the thermal insulation of homes. ### Procedure to reduce energy costs 1. Monitor consumption: Use devices to monitor energy consumption and identify areas for improvement. 2. Reduce energy consumption: Turn off appliances when not in use, use LED bulbs, and adopt sustainable energy behaviors. 3. Insulate your home: Improve the thermal insulation of homes to reduce heat loss. 4. Use renewable energy sources: Consider installing solar panels or other renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. ### Useful tools For cross-border workers who want to calculate their energy consumption and find ways to reduce it, the energy calculator available on the site can be used. This tool can help identify areas for improvement and plan interventions to reduce energy costs. ### Conclusion Despite the rise in oil and gas prices, supply in Switzerland remains secure. However, it is important to adopt measures to reduce energy consumption and monitor price developments. Using tools like the energy calculator can help better manage costs and plan effective interventions. Source: tvsvizzera.it

Punti chiave

[{"q":"What are the main sources of oil for Switzerland?","a":"Switzerland imports half of its crude oil from the United States. In 2025, it purchased 1.5 million tonnes of oil from the USA, totaling 691 million francs. Nigeria is the second most important supplier."},{"q":"How does the conflict in the Middle East affect Switzerland's energy supply?","a":"The conflict has disrupted global oil and gas transport, but Switzerland does not directly depend on the Persian Gulf. Supply remains secure, but prices may stay high for months."},{"q":"What measures can cross-border workers take to reduce energy costs?","a":"Cross-border workers can monitor their consumption, reduce energy use, improve the thermal insulation of their homes, and consider installing renewable energy sources."}]

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