√Switzerland considers electric-car bans during electricity shortages

Electric vehicles could be parked or restricted in use, as one power-saving measure under consideration in Switzerland to combat potential energy shortages, related in part to the conflict in Ukraine.

Switzerland is considering limits on the use of electric vehicles during electricity shortages, as it plans for such events as a result of the impacts of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The electric-car restrictions are part of a staged austerity package including reducing the temperature of washing machines, banning the use of leaf blowers and seat heaters on ski lifts, and slowing video streaming to standard definition.

The power restrictions are only at the draft stage, with no timetable for implementation, and the electric-vehicle limits are only included in the level-three package for the most extreme power saving.

According to Fox Business, most of the electricity in Switzerland comes from hydro generation (water) – but production slows in winter months, forcing the country to rely on imported energy from Germany and France.

Natural gas is a key source of energy in these nations, and the sanctions placed on Russia – one of the world’s largest producers of natural gas – after it invaded Ukraine has formed an energy shortage across Europe.

The Swiss move comes after California’s electric-vehicle drivers were asked in September not to charge during a heatwave in the state.

According to the Spiegel Mobility Report, the government paper on conserving electricity highlights restricted private use of electric cars and a potential lowering of speed limits in Switzerland.

“The private use of electric cars is only permitted for absolutely necessary journeys (e.g. professional practice, shopping, visiting the doctor, attending religious events, attending court appointments),” the draft paper said.

Germany has also developed a plan to save energy, while Spain reported a four per cent drop in electricity use in the first week after implementing restrictions in August that will continue until November 2023.

The German plan is being trialled for six months and includes restrictions on heating of swimming pools and recommendation that heating in buildings is set at 19 degrees.

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