Federal Railways announces complete transition to renewable electricity sources, primarily hydropower, as part of sustainability strategy to meet Paris Climate Agreement goals.
"The switch to 100% renewable traction current is part of company's sustainability strategy"
In a landmark decision that reinforces Switzerland's commitment to sustainable transportation, the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has announced its complete transition to renewable electricity sources starting January 1, 2025. This historic move positions Switzerland as a leader in sustainable rail transport and demonstrates the country's dedication to meeting its climate obligations under the Paris Agreement.
Currently, SBB's energy portfolio consists of approximately 90% hydropower and 10% nuclear power. From 2025, the company will completely phase out nuclear power, replacing it with additional renewable sources. The transition will be supported by certified guarantees of origin, ensuring transparency in the power supply chain. The remaining renewable electricity will be procured from both domestic Swiss sources and the broader European market, maintaining the railway's commitment to reliable and sustainable power supply.
The railway sector already stands as one of Switzerland's most environmentally friendly transportation modes, generating only 0.3% of the country's transportation-related CO2 emissions. Despite handling 17% of passenger traffic and 38% of freight transport, rail consumes merely 5% of the total energy used in land transportation. SBB's new commitment aims to further reduce its environmental footprint, targeting a 50% reduction in operational greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and an ambitious 90% reduction by 2040. The strategy also includes implementing climate-friendly alternatives to technical gases and more environmentally friendly refrigerants for train air conditioning systems.
The implementation of this renewable energy transition involves strategic market operations. SBB will redirect its nuclear power allocation to the electricity market while securing renewable power supplies through various sources. This shift not only supports Switzerland's energy transition but also creates new opportunities in the renewable energy market. The change will be supported by a comprehensive certification system using guarantees of origin, ensuring the traceability and sustainability of the power sources used in rail operations.