Renewable energies make an important and valuable contribution to electricity supplies over the long term. Yet despite all these endeavours, renewable energies can only play a limited role in closing the electricity gap over the next few years.

At present, wind and solar energy accounts for less than 0.06 percent of electricity production in Switzerland. Politicians and the energy sector agree that this ratio can be improved. By implementing numerous projects in Switzerland and abroad, we are making a valuable contribution to achieving the Federal Council's defined energy objectives. One of the four objectives expressly mentions the promotion of renewable energy.

In this respect, particularly in Switzerland, stepping up the use of hydro power offers the greatest potential. Projects currently being implemented in this field include construction of the Nant de Drance pumped-storage power station in the canton of Valais, improvements to existing run-of-river and storage power stations, and the planning and installation of various small hydroelectric power stations. We have also invested in the development and operation of small hydroelectric power stations in Italy and Scandinavia, and new projects are continually being added.

We view wind power as a practical supplementary source of energy. We operate two large wind farms in Italy in conjunction with partners. These two alone are capable of delivering 15 times the volume of electricity produced by all the wind farms in Switzerland. In Jülich (Germany) we are working on plans for a unique solar tower power station, and have been commissioned by the cities of Augsburg and Linz to plan and build a biomass heating power station.

We take climate change seriously. In addition to promoting renewable energies, we are committed to sustainable resource management and low-emission production. A great many of our plants in Switzerland and abroad are certified to current standards and subjected to regular checks and upgrades with a view to reducing emissions.