Forward-looking initiative for renewable energies in Switzerland
The "reFuel.ch" consortium, supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy, aims to establish sustainable supply routes for fuels and chemical raw materials in Switzerland, an endeavour that is already gaining international recognition.
The development of robust supply channels for renewable fuels and chemical feedstocks in Switzerland is the focus of the “reFuel.ch” consortium. Supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy, the consortium, consisting of nine Swiss universities, universities, research institutes and an industrial partner, held its kick-off event on 8 December 2023. The initiative emphasises the urgency of climate-friendly measures and actively involves political decision-makers in the dialogue.
During a state visit to Oman, a memorandum of understanding was signed by President Alain Berset to promote cooperation in the areas of sustainable energy and energy technologies. In this context, the “reFuel.ch” consortium received a “Letter of Interest” from the Omani ambassador, which emphasises the international importance and timely commitment of “reFuel.ch”.
Subsequent concrete measures include a visit by a “reFuel.ch” delegation to Oman to discuss the production of sustainable energy sources and chemical feedstocks. These talks are part of a global effort to optimise production methods and develop more efficient manufacturing processes. Another project is being launched in southern Spain with the aim of increasing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of renewable energy production.
The consortium is also looking at domestic production, in particular the use of farmyard manure to generate energy and increasing efficiency in the production of synthetic fuels. Switzerland plans to meet its demand for sustainable fuels and chemical feedstocks by utilising solar energy production in sunny regions of the world and at the same time expanding domestic energy production.