Parmelin expects an energy crisis of several years

According to Guy Parmelin (62) it is important not only to think about the coming winter, but to do everything possible to ensure that Switzerland produces more energy. That means more renewable energy and more efficiency.

In the years 2023 and 2024, Switzerland will still be dependent on oil and gas, Parmelin said in an interview with CH Medien. What it will look like in the coming years will depend on how quickly Switzerland can expand its production.

Too dependent on imported energy

When asked if the federal government hadn’t prepared enough for a crisis, Parmelin said the risks in energy had been underestimated. In recent decades, Switzerland has doubted that it has depended too much on energy imports.

The Federal Council launched a campaign to save energy. The first results are satisfactory. The population has been sensitized. Energy prices are still high, said the Minister of Economic Affairs. That helps to save.

As for the energy shortage, Parmelin said there is a regulation for gas. As for electricity, the experts said that before the end of March next year, the risk of a shortage is very small. Electricity regulations should be in effect by the end of November.

Economic crisis also possible

The Federal Council wants to use the time and work with the associations to make the regulations even more business-friendly. The bill will then be discussed and the Federal Council will then make a decision.

Parmelin also sees the danger that the energy crisis could lead to an economic crisis. Germany, Switzerland’s most important trading partner, is in danger of a recession. This could have consequences for the Swiss economy.

(SDA)