The recent news “Switzerland banning electric cars” has become a major topic of discussion among people who are pro-electric vehicles. Already, debates have started among nature enthusiasts about the disadvantages and advantages of the respective decision. However, very few of us know the reality of the news. First, let us know what this news is all about and then know if it has certain repercussions or benefits in the long run.
The Fact behind the news
Switzerland is not banning electric cars, rather it is putting a proposal forward to put restrictions on their usage as a step towards conserving energy for the future. Not to forget, it is in its initial stage of planning and even if it is implemented, no complete ban will be imposed on electric cars. Hence, putting an end to speculations.
Switzerland faces an energy shortage
Russia restricting gas supplies to European countries has become a big reason to worry for countries like Switzerland. With predictions of an acute energy crisis in the winter, Switzerland is making contingency plans for the season. Among them are restricting the use of electric vehicles if the need arises and saving energy by minimizing the usage of electrical appliances by the residents of the country.
Additionally, while most of the European countries are using firewood and coal to bridge the gap between energy supply and demand, Switzerland is making use of renewable forms of energy like hydropower. This environment-friendly initiative by Switzerland protected the from paying high electric bills.
Furthermore, no sudden increase in oil and gas prices has been observed so far due to the diligence of the respective government.
More energy-saving initiatives by Switzerland
1. Appeal to the common public – With their campaign “Energy is scarce, let’s not waste it”, the Swiss government is encouraging common households to save as much energy as they can.
According to Mr. Guy Parmelin, the Economic Minister of Switzerland, every kilowatt hour counts hence we have to work together to save energy for the coming days. Not to forget, this campaign is backed by big business associations, companies, and cantons.
Whether it is saving energy through using less hot water or electrical devices and lights for long hours, energy saving is now a responsibility of every household not just in this country but across the world.
2. Voluntary gas-saving schemes – The schemes aimed to reduce demand for gas by 15 percent by October. And for this, the Swiss government is taking all possible steps.
(i) Switching from gas to heating oil to save 20 percent of total energy consumption.
(ii) Bans on gas usage for commercial purposes like offices, terraces, sports centers, and buildings for public use.
(iii) Rationing gas by the government for the less important sectors.
(iv) Encouragement of work from home.
3. No heating facility in second homes – How can you expect energy savings if you are using power at two places for a single family? Keeping this fact in mind, the Swiss government is restricting facilities in the second home. Hence, it is recommended to stay in a single home and reduce waste of energy by all means
4. Encouraging alternative sources of energy – In times of energy crisis, there is no better option than alternative sources of energy. Hydropower is the biggest source of renewable energy in Switzerland and now the government is taking all measures to expand solar energy as well.
Hence, it becomes quite clear from the above details that restricting electric cars can be a possible measure for the future if the situation goes out of control. With the anticipation of a peace threat, the country is pulling its socks up to tackle the upcoming energy crisis. Be it the jobs, electricity in the household, or the economy, everything sector of the country is at stake.
Hence, to protect its country from blackouts, unemployment, and a bad economy, the country may impose some imposition on electric car usage. Not to forget, the cars will be available for medical needs and other compulsory purposes but might not be feasible for the common man like it was before.
An Introduction to Renewable Energy
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