Federal Office of Energy

The Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) is the federal government’s centre of expertise for energy supply and use. Operating under the Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC), it promotes a secure, sustainable, and efficient energy system.^[1] The SFOE sets energy safety standards, creates the necessary conditions for efficient electricity and gas markets, and works to increase energy efficiency, expand the use of renewable energy, and reduce CO₂ emissions. It also coordinates national energy research.^[1] As of January 2025, it had 345 employees and a budget of CHF 104 million, and administered a grid surcharge fund of CHF 1.3 billion.^[1]

Federal Office of Energy

(in German) Bundesamt für Energie (in French) Office fédéral de l'énergie (in Italian) Ufficio federale dell'energia
Agency overview
Jurisdiction	Federal administration of Switzerland
Headquarters	Ittigen
Employees	324
Annual budget	CHF 100m, with CHF 1.3 planned revenue (2022)
Minister responsible	Simonetta Sommaruga, Federal Councillor
Parent agency	Federal Department of Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications
Website	www.bfe.admin.ch

Energy Strategy 2050

Switzerland's Energy Strategy 2050 was adopted to guide the country’s long-term transition in energy policy, including the decision not to replace existing nuclear power plants at the end of their service life.^[2] The SFOE is responsible for implementing this strategy, focusing on energy efficiency and the expansion of renewable energy sources.^[2] The office issues regulations on the energy consumption of household appliances, consumer electronics, light bulbs, and electric motors. It also sets conditions to support the development of renewable energy technologies such as hydropower, solar, and wind. Additional responsibilities include power grid development, energy research, and international cooperation.^[2]

Energy research

Energy research is a core component of Switzerland’s energy policy. The federal government allocates about CHF 200 million annually to support a secure energy supply and promote energy technology. Activities are guided by the federal energy research concept, revised every four years by the Swiss Federal Energy Research Commission (CORE). The concept also informs local authorities and research institutions. Priorities include international cooperation and applying research outcomes in practice.^[3]

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