Switzerland’s path to a sustainable energy future could be significantly bolstered by the widespread adoption of electric cars and heat pumps. These technologies, according to a comprehensive study by ETH Zurich and its partners, could offer critical flexibility to the nation’s power grid, reducing reliance on electricity imports and lowering prices.
The Swiss Federal Council is targeting a carbon-neutral energy supply by 2050 as part of its Energy Strategy. This involves a transition from fossil fuel-based heating to heat pumps and a gradual shift from traditional vehicles to electric ones. Consequently, electricity demand is projected to rise from the current 56 terawatt-hours (TWh) annually to approximately 75 TWh by mid-century.
A report from the “PATHFNDR” research consortium, under the “SWEET” program, highlights that heat pumps and electric cars could complement hydropower as pivotal flexibility providers by 2050.
Christian Schaffner from ETH Zurich states, “The two technologies serve to better coordinate rising electricity consumption with electricity production from renewable energy sources. This relieves the burden on the power grid, reduces imports and brings down wholesale electricity prices—particularly in the winter months.”
Intelligent Usage to Prevent Grid Overload
Smart management of heat pumps can prevent grid overloads, even during lower temperatures. For instance, at 0°C, Minergie-standard buildings can maintain temperature for up to 10 hours without active heating, allowing pumps to cycle off strategically.
Electric vehicles, meanwhile, often remain plugged in longer than needed, especially after work hours, which allows for charging in sync with electricity availability. This is particularly efficient when done during daylight hours at workplaces, maximizing photovoltaic energy use, according to study co-author Siobhan Powell.
Enhancing Renewable Energy Utilization
By 2050, Switzerland aims to fulfill 50-60% of its electricity needs with new renewable energy sources like wind and solar. The study shows flexible consumption can boost renewable electricity availability by an additional 4%.
Such flexibility could also cut net electricity imports by about 20%, with a notable impact during spring and summer. Powell notes that “these amount to some 1.8 TWh of electricity,” serving 0.5 million Swiss households annually. Winter imports could also decrease by 0.7 TWh, a 4.4% winter reduction.
Reduced Costs and Infrastructure Needs
Flexible usage of heat pumps and electric cars could lower electricity prices, especially in winter, potentially reducing them by up to 6% in early months. This approach could also cut system operation costs by 4% compared to a non-flexible setup.
The study also predicts fewer gas power stations and battery storage constructions. Powell points out, “Above all, gas power stations and batteries are necessary to compensate for peaks in electricity demand. If electric vehicles and heat pumps take over this function, we’ll need fewer of them.”
Public Support and Grid Optimization
A survey reveals 70% of Swiss citizens support contributing to grid stability through flexible technology, provided it remains convenient and automated. Around 30% would tolerate minor inconveniences if it reduced costs.
Flexible charging and heating could alleviate strain on local grids, reducing the need for costly infrastructure upgrades. The study examined 50 grid areas, finding significant benefits, particularly in urban zones.
Encouraging Flexibility Through Incentives
For widespread flexibility by 2050, necessary control and communication technology must be integrated into heat pumps and electric vehicles. The study suggests subsidies should favor systems capable of intelligent operation.
Incentives like dynamic tariffs could encourage behavior changes, though regional differences in tariffs could pose challenges. Moreover, there is a call for a national “right to charge” policy for tenants, which is not yet established.
More information: Flexibility provision from electromobility and buildings – Synthesis Report (2025). DOI: 10.3929/ethz-c-000787060
Original Story at techxplore.com