Laws These changes will come into force in Switzerland from March 1
Use cases for automated driving, increased import of grain and lower electricity usage costs. On March 1, changes to laws and ordinances as well as other innovations will come into force in Switzerland. Here is an overview:
01.03.2025, 04:30
01.03.2025, 04:31
SDA
AUTOMATED DRIVING: Automated vehicles can increase road safety and improve traffic flow. From March 1, three use cases for automated driving will be permitted. Drivers of an automated vehicle may now use a highway pilot on freeways. The use of driverless vehicles on officially approved routes is also permitted. Automated parking without the presence of a driver is also possible in designated and signalized parking garages and parking spaces.
ELECTRICITY USE COSTS: Electricity consumers will have to pay CHF 124 million less for grid usage in the 2025 tariff year. The Federal Council has adjusted the risk-based compensation for the capital invested in the electricity grid. The corresponding amendment to the Electricity Supply Ordinance for calculating the weighted average cost of capital (WACC) comes into force on March 1. This WACC is determined annually by the Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC).
WAR MATERIAL: Armaments companies are given more time to produce and export goods. The Federal Council has increased the period of validity of import, export and transit licenses for war material from one to two years. An amendment to the War Material Ordinance (KMV) is required to extend the period of validity. The amendment will enter into force on March 1, 2025. The Federal Council cited the procurement, manufacturing, delivery and introduction processes, which take a long time for modern military equipment, as the reason for this.
BREAD GRAIN: Last year, farmers in Switzerland were able to harvest less bread grain than at any time for a quarter of a century. The Federal Council therefore decided to increase the import quota by 60,000 tons in order to meet the demand for wheat, rye and spelt. The corresponding amendment to the Agricultural Import Ordinance will come into force on March 1, 2025.
ENTRY PERMIT: From 5 March, travelers to the UK will be able to apply for a digital entry permit (ETA) for a fee. This will be required from April 2, 2025. The best way to apply is via the UK ETA app. The cost is 10 pounds (11.20 francs).
