Swiss approve law boosting renewable energy generation

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🗞️ Driving the news: Switzerland has approved a law aimed at accelerating the development of renewable energies to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050
• The law, which passed with nearly 69% voter support, focuses on boosting the minimal current contributions of wind and solar power to the national energy mix

🔭 The context: This legislation follows a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights that condemned Switzerland for insufficient climate action
• The new law was supported by major environmental organizations like Greenpeace and WWF, while facing opposition from the hard-right Swiss People's Party and some smaller environmental groups

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The approval of this law marks a significant step towards reducing Switzerland's dependency on imported electricity and enhancing its renewable energy infrastructure, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change

⏭️ What's next: The law will facilitate the installation of solar panels on buildings and ease the planning permissions for wind turbines
• The government also plans to undertake 16 hydroelectric projects to boost domestic power generation

💬 One quote: "The Swiss people have taken an important decision about our electricity supply," said the Alliance For a Safe and Affordable Electricity Supply

📈 One stat: Last year, nuclear power accounted for 32% of Switzerland’s total energy production, while hydroelectric power represented 57%

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