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Gotthard Tunnel: The driving bans are only planned for escalation level 3
Photo: Alessandro Crinari / picture alliance/dpa/KEYSTONE/TI-PRESS
Switzerland could be the first country to impose driving bans on e-cars in an emergency to ensure energy security.
Several media report this unanimously and refer to a draft regulation on restrictions and bans on the use of electrical energy.
Specifically, the paper says: "The private use of electric cars is only permitted for absolutely necessary journeys (e.g. professional practice, shopping, visiting the doctor, attending religious events, attending court appointments)." A stricter speed limit is also planned highways.
Most of the electricity in Switzerland comes from hydropower.
However, the country also imports electricity from Germany and France.
If there are bottlenecks there, electricity could also become scarce in Switzerland.
Energy security in Europe is considered endangered because of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine.
Many countries are therefore preparing for an emergency.
You can read here how likely a blackout is in Germany.
Seat heating in the chairlift does not work
The restrictions in e-mobility are only intended for escalation level 3, according to the draft.
Before that, austerity measures would take effect in private households.
Washing machines, for example, should then only run at a maximum of 40 degrees.
Leaf blowers, patio heaters, seat heaters in chair lifts may not be operated.
And videos from streaming services should only be shown in SD resolution.
However, it is still only a draft.
Should there actually be a power shortage, the measures should be readjusted and the ordinance only then come into force, reports the news site “t-online”.
In view of the crisis, Germany has also set up an energy saving plan to reduce electricity consumption in Germany.
For example, private pools can no longer be heated with gas or electricity.
Offices should also only be heated to a maximum of 19 degrees if possible.
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