Aargau energy subsidy programme limited until 2026
The Grand Council of the Canton of Aargau has decided to continue the Energy for Buildings funding programme only until 2026 for the time being. Despite an increase in the budget to CHF 97.2 million, the duration of the programme will be limited to two years. The reason for this is uncertainty regarding federal funding.
The Aargau energy promotion programme will be continued until 2026 with a gross credit of CHF 97.2 million. This decision by the Grand Council, which was passed by 89 votes to 47, deviates from the original proposal by the cantonal government. The government had envisaged an extension until 2028 and a total budget of CHF 176.5 million. The shorter period was chosen due to possible cost-cutting measures by the federal government, which could make cantonal co-financing more difficult.
Controversy surrounding the funding
While the SP, Centre Party, GLP and Greens welcomed the increase in the credit, the FDP and SVP were sceptical. The FDP called for a budget of CHF 88.25 million, which would cover half of the originally proposed total costs for four years. The SVP rejected the programme in principle and criticised state intervention.
Focus of the programme
The funding programme supports measures to improve energy efficiency and reduce CO₂ emissions. Among other things, the programme supports
- Improvements to the building envelope
- Wood heating systems and heat pumps
- Connections to heating networks
- Solar thermal systems
- Projects for the development of heating networks
Funds are also available for pilot projects. According to the cantonal dispatch, previous programmes have shown that energy efficiency has been increased and CO₂ emissions have been significantly reduced.
Funding from CO₂ levies
The majority of the funding comes from federal contributions, including from the CO₂ partial earmarking and the federal impulse programme. The canton itself bears around 25 % of the total costs.
Prospects for homeowners
The two-year limit raises questions about long-term planning. Homeowners and builders emphasised the need for continuity in funding programmes in order to promote investment in sustainable building technologies.
The Canton of Aargau’s energy subsidy programme remains an important instrument for reducing CO₂ emissions and increasing energy efficiency. However, the limited duration of the programme until 2026 reflects the uncertainties surrounding federal funding and poses planning challenges for the future.