Federal Council wants to accelerate procedures for renewables
The Federal Council wants to simplify the procedures for the planning and approval of major hydropower and wind power plants. He also wants to promote the expansion of photovoltaics on roofs and facades.
Switzerland is lagging behind in the expansion of wind energy. The procedures for the construction of large hydroelectric power plants also take a long time. The Federal Council now wants to speed up the planning and approval procedures for large plants, it writes in a statement . No compromises should be made when it comes to protecting nature, the environment and monuments.
The Federal Council wants to develop a concept with the locations of the most important hydropower and wind turbines. This should serve as a guideline for cantonal structural planning. The systems listed there should then only be subject to a cantonal planning approval procedure. This should be able to issue all permits. Thus, in the event of an objection, only one appeal through the instances should be possible.
In addition, the Federal Council wants to accelerate the installation of photovoltaics on roofs and facades. Investments in new buildings should also be tax deductible. The approval of solar systems on facades is to be regulated via a notification procedure.
The Swiss Energy Foundation welcomes the initiative of the Federal Council. “Switzerland needs a booster for renewable energies,” said Managing Director Nils Epprecht in a statement . “The Federal Council has recognized the urgency. In doing so, he does not question the two political cornerstones of Switzerland, the balancing of interests and federalism.”
The consultation on the Federal Council’s proposal lasts until May 23, 2022.