Our neighboring country is preparing for possible outages of a nationwide power shortage. The regulations summarized under the term "electricity shortage" provide that under certain conditions it can be prohibited in future to drive electric cars, since their electricity consumption is to be reduced.

The draft published by the Swiss Federal Council summarizes that "in the event of an imminent shortage", appeals would first be made to all electricity consumers. "At the same time, the Federal Council can already issue the first restrictions on use and bans. They take place in escalating steps, starting with comfort restrictions such as the ban on object lighting through to drastic measures such as plant closures."

The aim of the measures is "to implement interventions that are optimally adapted to the respective situation, depending on the supply situation, meteorological conditions and the consequences for the economy and the population."

These regulations, which are not very detailed in this respect, are then explained in more detail and substantiated on the basis of the use of private electric vehicles: "Can the use of electric cars be banned? In a serious, ongoing shortage (escalation level 3), the private use of electric cars can be limited to trips that are absolutely necessary. " However, "use for absolutely necessary trips such as shopping, doctor visits and professional practice" remains permitted.

In this context, the term "electricity shortage" was recently voted word of the year in German-speaking Switzerland. The jury of the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) is responsible for this. She chooses the most striking words from suggestions from the audience and compiles a ranking. Specifically, the term describes a possible power shortage.

Sources: Swiss Federal Council (press release), "Q