Switzerland must achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The Federal Council set Wednesday the entry into force of the ordinance linked to the climate protection law, accepted by the people in June 2023. Aid to replace oil and gas heating in residential buildings are notably provided for
To achieve carbon neutrality, the law, which will also be introduced at the beginning of next year, provides in particular for an impulse program in the field of buildings with a view to replacing heaters running on oil or gas and heaters electricity through renewable systems.
The goal is also to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. For this purpose, a maximum of 200 million francs per year for ten years are planned.
The grant conditions focus on areas in which cantonal support is currently insufficient. The emphasis is therefore placed on residential buildings with fossil fuel heating, the government said in a press release. Another important point is the replacement of inefficient electric heaters with modern heating systems running on renewable energy.
Support for innovative processes
Regarding support for innovative technologies and processes until 2030, an amount of 200 million francs will be made available each year to help companies reduce their CO2 emissions to net zero by 2050.
These companies can voluntarily establish roadmaps explaining how they intend to achieve this objective. They can request financial support for the technologies and processes they apply. The order specifies, among other things, the procedure for granting aid, or how small and medium-sized businesses can access this encouragement through their professional associations.
Adaptation to climate change
The ordinance further defines measures in the areas of adaptation to climate change. A newly created network must improve exchanges between the Confederation, the cantons, the municipalities as well as the economic and scientific circles.
The compatibility of financial flows with climate objectives is also concerned. The financial sector can voluntarily carry out climate tests, which allow the Federal Council to regularly check the progress made by the sector.
ats/lan
Swiss
