The Swiss federal government is developing an emergency plan as the risk of blackouts increases amid the war in Ukraine, writes The Telegraph. Under the plan, electric cars could be banned from non-essential travel in Switzerland this winter.

The government has drawn up emergency proposals, including keeping the temperature in public buildings below 20 degrees Celsius, reducing the opening hours of shops, and the strictest measures include banning sports matches, concerts and theater performances.

Switzerland is bracing for an energy crisis this winter due to its dependence on imports. Hydropower accounts for about 60% of Switzerland’s energy supply. Nuclear power, which the government is trying to phase out, accounts for a third, while fossil-fueled power plants and solar or wind provide the rest.

During the wet months, rain and snow generate large amounts of hydropower, so Switzerland exports large amounts. In the cold months, when production falls, he becomes an importer. This made the Swiss vulnerable to energy shortages in Europe due to the war in Ukraine.

The country’s response to energy risks has two levels – one emergency, the other – a real crisis, including three levels of restrictions on the first and two on the second.

At the lowest level, public buildings will be heated to no higher than 20 degrees Celsius, and people will be asked to limit their washing machines to a maximum of 40 degrees Celsius. At the next level, the temperature will be reduced to 19 degrees Celsius, and streaming services will reduce the video resolution from HD to standard.

If the situation worsens, shops will be asked to close two hours earlier and electric cars will be restricted to essential journeys.

Emergency measures may result in hot water being turned off in public bathrooms and the use of electric fans being prohibited. Next, the escalators will be turned off and the street Christmas lights will be turned off.

Cryptocurrency mining will be banned if supplies continue to fall, swimming pools will be closed, and the lights in sports stadiums will be turned off.

If there is a major shortage, sports matches, concerts and theater performances will be canceled and all entertainment businesses will be forced to close.

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