The CO2 Act provides for a number of new funding schemes to bring Switzerland closer to its 2050 net-zero target. The funding is focused on the energy and transport sectors. The financial resources for this come either from the general federal budget, the revenue from the CO2 levy or the proceeds raised by auctioning emission allowances in the emissions trading system.
Task and subsidy review
On 20 September 2024, the Federal Council decided on the key figures for a federal budget relief package. The consultation process started on 29 january 2025 and will last until 5 may 2025. The following articles in the CO2 Act are also affected: Funding for renewable energies (Article 34a), Cross-border transport (Article 37a), Electric drive technologies in public transport (Article 41a)
Promotion of renewable energies
Article 34a of the CO2 Act provides for various funding schemes for renewable energies. The financial resources for this come from the revenue generated by the CO2 levy. For some time now, funding has been available for geothermal energy projects. As of 1 January 2025, there is also a new funding scheme for renewable gas production installations. In addition, funding is now available for systems that use solar power for industrial heat.
The SFOE is responsible for implementing these funding measures.
Funding for cross-border passenger rail transport
In accordance with Article 37a of the CO2 Act, a maximum of CHF 30 million per year is to be used to support overnight train services from 1 January 2025 until the end of 2030. The financial resources for this come from the proceeds raised by auctioning emission allowances for aircraft.
The FOT is responsible for implementing these funding measures.
Funding for measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in aviation
In accordance with Article 37a of the CO2 Act, the remainder of the proceeds raised by auctioning emission allowances for aircraft will be used to develop and manufacture renewable synthetic aviation fuels. Article 103b of the Aviation Act also guarantees funding for fuels of this kind through additional resources from the federal budget.
The FOCA is responsible for implementing these funding measures.
Funding for electric drive technologies
In accordance with Article 41a of the CO2 Act, the federal government will support the procurement of electric vehicles for public transport with a maximum of CHF 47 million per year until 2030. The financial resources for this come from the general federal budget and are partly co-financed by the mineral oil tax. The FOT is responsible for implementing these funding measures.
Funding as part of the Federal Act on a Secure Electricity Supply from Renewable Energy Sources
In addition to the above-mentioned funding under the CO2 Act, the Federal Act on a Secure Electricity Supply from Renewable Energy Sources provides for a range of funding measures. The aim of these measures is to support the expansion of renewable energies and contribute to achieving the net-zero target.
Last modification 13.02.2025
