Grid regulation and infrastructure
Cost of RES grid access
Solar and wind energy plants are not equally treated when it comes to grid usage fees in comparison to other renewable energy technologies like pumped storage power plants.
The pumped storage power plants are currently exempt from paying the grid usage fee in accordance with Article 14 paragraph 2 of the Electricity Supply Act of March 23, 2007 (electricity supply law, SR 734.7) because they are not considered end consumers according to the definition in the Electricity Supply Act (Article 4 paragraph 1 letter b Electricity Supply Act).
More specifically, article 4 paragraph 1 letter b states that power plants that obtain electricity for own consumtion ("für den Eigenbedarf") as well as for pumps of pumped storage power plants, do not fall under the definition of end consumer. As a result, pumped storage power plants are treated favourably in relation to other renewable energy technologies although wind and solar power plants could arguably equally fall under the grid usage fee exemption. A representative of the Solar Energy Association accordingly has demanded an equal treatment regarding the exemption from grid usage fees for all renewable energy sources.
Affected technologies
This online database provides information on barriers and best practices for wind onshore, wind offshore, PV rooftop and PV ground-mounted technologies.
Barrier
Competent authorities
For No equal treatment for solar/wind power regarding grid usage fees in relation to hydro power
| Authority (Original name) | Authority (English) | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Eidgenössisches Departement für Umwelt, Verkehr, Energie und Kommunikation | Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications |
Barrier
Legal Sources
For No equal treatment for solar/wind power regarding grid usage fees in relation to hydro power
| Source (original name) | Source (english name) | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Stromversorgungsgesetz | Electricity Supply Act |