Energy strategy for Public Transport 2050 - ESPT 2050

The "Energy Strategy 2050 in Public Transport" (ESPT 2050) programme promotes research and innovation projects in the sector that help reduce energy consumption, cut CO2 emissions and increase the use of renewable energy.

Transport accounts for one third of the total energy consumption in Switzerland. If development continues as it has, this share will continue to increase due to rising demand. Public transport consumes less energy than private transport. But it can also make a substantial contribution to saving energy and reducing CO2 emissions. This is why the Federal Council has commissioned the Federal Office of Transport (FOT) to implement the Energy Strategy for Public Transport.

The goals of the ESPT 2050 programme are:

Increasing energy efficiency
Withdrawal from nuclear energy
Reduction of CO₂ emissions
Renewable energy production

The programme applies to all public transport in Switzerland - rail transport, urban public transport, regional road public transport, as well as ships and cable cars. The transport companies are primarily called upon to improve their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions with suitable measures.

The Federal Office of Transport takes on the role of a driving force both in the implementation of measures and in shaping the framework conditions for the industry. In accordance with the federal decree, a maximum of CHF 3 million per year is available for the programme. These are largely used to promote projects and measures in the sector.