Eastern Switzerland Schaffhausen Cantonal Council debates two energy transition laws

On Monday, the Schaffhausen Cantonal Council discussed two bills that are intended to contribute to the energy transition. They concerned the new Energy Act and amendments to the Building Act. The cantonal council expressed certain reservations, but did not finish the first reading.

Among other things, the amendments to the Building Act are intended to enable faster procedures for the expansion of renewable energies, as Mayowa Alaye (GLP) noted during the debate.

The creation of a new usage zone in the Building Act proved to be particularly controversial: the cantonal government could use it to designate locations for energy plants of cantonal importance. The zone was only narrowly included in the law by 31 votes to 28.

Christian Heydecker (FDP) criticized the cantonal zones for renewable energy plants as undermining municipal autonomy. The needs of the urban population would be met at the expense of the rural population. Ultimately, it was probably about the construction of wind turbines, for example on the Randen. The law would never be approved by the people. There was also opposition from the SVP.

However, the supporters pointed out that overriding interests had to be placed above particular interests in order to achieve progress. And despite the cantonal zone, they argued that the democratic right of objection remained intact. The building law will now go back to the committee. The cantonal council will then hold the final vote at the second reading.

Separate law for energy

The new Energy Act, the first reading of which was also scheduled for Monday, is intended to promote the economical, rational use of energy and encourage the use of renewable energies. On the one hand, articles that are already contained in the building and electricity acts will be moved to the new act. On the other hand, numerous new provisions will be created.

The SVP/EDU and FDP/Mitte parliamentary groups were less than enthusiastic about the bill. They tabled numerous amendments during the detailed consultation "to save what can be saved". These were aimed in particular at easing "overly rigorous restrictions" and stopping "the paternalism of citizens".

The SP, Greens and GLP attempted to defend the creation of the energy law in its proposed form: "A sustainable energy supply is undisputed, the law is a step forward," said the SP.

The Cantonal Council was unable to conclude the first reading of the Energy Act at its double session on Monday due to the large number of motions. It will continue at a later date.