Solar energy on track
The expansion of photovoltaics in Switzerland reached another record level in 2024. Over 10% of electricity demand was covered by solar energy, and the trend is rising. Switzerland is therefore well on course to achieve its energy targets. However, new regulatory uncertainties and declines in the single-family home segment are slowing the momentum.
In 2024, 1,798 megawatts of new photovoltaic capacity were installed in Switzerland, an increase of 10 % compared to the previous year. The total output rose to 8.2 gigawatts, which covered over 10 % of the national electricity demand. Despite below-average solar radiation and rising electricity consumption, the annual production corresponds to the consumption of around two million households.
Security of supply through winter electricity
Photovoltaics is not just a summer technology; from October 2024 to April 2025, 2.4 terawatt hours of solar power were generated, a third of annual production. This contribution significantly relieved the pressure on Switzerland’s reservoirs. Without solar energy, Switzerland would have had to import significantly more electricity.
Decline in the single-family home segment
While larger systems continued to grow strongly, the expansion on single-family homes fell by 3 %. This slowed overall growth, as around a third of installed capacity was previously based on this segment. According to Swissolar, the reason for this restraint is the uncertainty surrounding the new Electricity Act.
Battery storage systems are gaining in importance
The expansion of battery storage systems also increased by 4%. The commercial sector in particular is showing increased momentum. Today, 47% of PV systems on single-family homes are already equipped with battery storage. The total storage capacity is just under 900 MWh, enough for 100,000 households for one day.
International momentum confirms global trend
Around 597 GW of photovoltaic capacity was installed worldwide in 2024, an increase of 33%. With 908 watts per capita, Switzerland is in 10th place in an international comparison. Global solar power production rose to 2,000 TWh.
Changing framework conditions
The new Electricity Supply Act creates important foundations for local electricity consumption, but also leads to uncertainty. In particular, there is a lack of practicable solutions for local electricity communities and market-based purchase remuneration. Swissolar is calling for concrete improvements to better utilise the potential of local use and storage solutions.
Slowdown with prospects
Swissolar expects the market to decline by around 10% to 1600 MW in 2025 due to regulatory transition phases. Stabilisation is expected from 2026. The targets of 18.7 TWh of solar power by 2030 and 35 TWh from new renewable energies by 2035 are achievable with continuous expansion of between 1,800 and 2,000 MW per year.