The contingency scenario agreed by ministers is a slightly modified version of a four-stage plan announced in August, which has since gone through a consultation process involving cantonal authorities and other stakeholders.
In the initial plan, for example, the temperature limit was planned at 19°C, and the contribution to be made by private households was less marked.
On Wednesday the government saidExternal link that without the contribution of households, which account for some 40% of gas used in the country, reducing usage significantly would not be possible. As for the raising of the maximum temperature from 19°C to 20°C, this was based on the premise that 20°C was an easier number both to measure and to set.
Failure to respect the limit would be punished, but authorities are still exploring options as to how this would work. Economics Minister Guy Parmelin said on Wednesday that the goal was not to send police around to every apartment with thermometers, and that the responsibility of citizens would be called upon in case of a shortage.
More
More
Switzerland braces for winter energy crunch
This content was published on
Explainer: why is there a risk of an energy shortage this winter? What is Switzerland doing to reduce gas and electricity consumption?
Other measures were also finalised, including a decision not to grant exceptions from emergency rationing plans. In scenarios involving a sudden outage of gas, rationing might have to be introduced immediately, and for a period of 24 hours, the government said; this could be extended up to several weeks if necessary.
Ultimately however, as for the likelihood of a severe shortage, “this can’t be predicted and depends on meteorological and especially geopolitical factors”, the executive wrote. For his part, Parmelin said the risk remained – for this winter at least – “relatively low”.
Protein in abdominal fat could help shape obesity treatment
This content was published on
The study analysed fat cells from different locations in the body, and found that those in the abdomen have unique properties.
North African asylum claims fall after rapid Swiss processing
This content was published on
The accelerated procedure, now out of its test phase, has resulted in a significant drop in applications from North African countries.
This content was published on
The artist's song "The Code" focuses on their journey as a nonbinary individual. It is one of the favourites to win this year's contest.
Swiss climate activists block vehicles near Gotthard tunnel
This content was published on
Around ten climate activists briefly blocked the A2 motorway near the northern entrance of the Gotthard tunnel on Thursday.
Watches belonging to Michael Schumacher up for auction
This content was published on
Schumacher's family is auctioning off eight rare watches from his collection in Geneva. The Christie's auction will take place on Monday.
Joya Marleen and Baschi named best solo acts at Swiss Music Awards
This content was published on
St. Gallen singer Joya Marleen and Baschi from Basel were named artists of the year at the Swiss Music Awards 2024 on Wednesday night.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Energy crisis ‘will last many years’, says economics minister
This content was published on
Guy Parmelin says it is important not only to think about the winter, but to do everything to ensure that Switzerland produces more energy.
Swiss government takes further measures to prevent energy crunch
This content was published on
The Swiss government has approved the use of emergency power generators for the coming winter to provide a total output of 280 MW.
Swiss companies and towns join forces to save energy
This content was published on
Switzerland launches Energy Saving Alliance of companies, cantons, civil society and towns to preserve winter gas and electricity supplies.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.