Municipal vote EWZ receives 300 million for sustainable electricity production in winter

The electricity utility of the city of Zurich (EWZ) can invest in the production of sustainable electricity during the winter months when there is little sunshine. The citizens of Zurich have clearly approved a framework credit of CHF 300 million.

85,243 people voted in favor of the loan, while only 17,627 people rejected it. The proportion of votes in favor was therefore 82.8 percent. The turnout was 45.1 percent.

This is already the fourth framework credit after 2008, 2016 and 2020 with which the EWZ can increase production from various renewable sources.

The CHF 300 million loan that has now been approved is primarily intended to enable the further expansion of hydropower plants, high-alpine photovoltaics, wind farms and investments in companies for sustainable electricity production with a high proportion of winter electricity.

Controversial wind and solar power plants

The bill passed the city parliament by 97 votes to 14. The SVP recommended rejection, arguing that a large proportion of the loan should be invested in wind and solar power plants in Switzerland and abroad, which are controversial among the local population.

SDA