immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Category: Switzerland

  • National Council wants to expand support for asbestos victims

    National Council wants to expand support for asbestos victims

    On Thursday, the National Council passed an amendment to the Accident Insurance Act by 130 votes in favour and 64 against. This is intended to ensure financial support for asbestos victims from the Swiss National Accident Insurance Fund. The decision was made against the will of a minority of the SVP.

    Closing the gap in support
    The amendment aims to secure the future of the Compensation Fund for Asbestos Victims Foundation. In future, Suva should be able to make contributions to support the foundation financially. However, these funds may only come from additional income from insurance against occupational accidents and illnesses so as not to affect premiums.

    Compensation for asbestos victims
    Asbestos, once popular for its practical and fireproof properties, was used for decades. The building material has been banned in Switzerland since 1989, but the illnesses caused by asbestos often only become apparent decades later. Every year, around 120 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma, a form of cancer of the pleura and peritoneum caused by asbestos fibres.

    Financial security for those affected
    The EFA Foundation is intended to compensate those asbestos victims who are not covered by compulsory accident insurance. Although these people receive benefits from health insurance and disability insurance, these often do not fully cover the costs. The foundation is based on voluntary contributions from the industry, but these have decreased in recent years.

    Criticism from opponents
    A minority of the SVP criticised the bill as “not fair to the polluter”. They feared that the amendment could lead to higher insurance contributions and demanded more contributions from the responsible companies. However, the minority was defeated in the Council, as all other parties supported the bill.

    Outlook
    The Suva Council will decide whether and how much money will be transferred to the EFA Foundation. The foundation will need additional funds totalling CHF 25 to 50 million by 2030. Next, the Council of States must decide on the bill.

  • Mortgage reference interest rate falls to 1.5 per cent

    Mortgage reference interest rate falls to 1.5 per cent

    The mortgage reference interest rate was set at 1.5 per cent, which corresponds to a reduction of 0.25 percentage points compared to the last published rate. This change is based on the volume-weighted average interest rate for domestic mortgage receivables, which fell from 1.63% to 1.53% as at 31 December 2024. The new reference interest rate will apply from 4 March 2025 and will remain in place until the average interest rate falls below 1.38% or rises above 1.62%.

    Effects on tenancies
    The reduction in the reference interest rate by 0.25 percentage points can mean a reduction of up to 2.91 per cent for tenants, provided the previous rent was based on a reference interest rate of 1.75 per cent. If the reference interest rate is higher than 1.75 per cent, the rent reduction is correspondingly greater.

    If the previous rent is already based on a reference interest rate of 1.5 per cent, there is no entitlement to an adjustment. If the reference interest rate is 1.25 per cent, the landlord’s entitlement to an increase is generally reduced to 3 per cent.

    Exceptions and additional factors
    Tenancy agreements with indexed or staggered rents and turnover rents for commercial premises are exempt from these regulations. Special regulations may also apply to subsidised flats.

    In addition to the reference interest rate, other factors such as changes in the national consumer price index (inflation) and changes in maintenance and operating costs can influence the rent structure. These factors may have to be included in the calculation.

    Quarterly adjustment
    The mortgage reference interest rate is announced quarterly by the Federal Housing Office (BWO) and published on the www.referenzzinssatz.admin.ch website. The next announcement is scheduled for 2 June 2025.

    This article provides a comprehensive and forward-looking overview of the effects of the reduction in the mortgage reference interest rate on tenancies in Switzerland.

  • These cantons lead Switzerland

    These cantons lead Switzerland

    With the KIKI, the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts has presented an analysis model that measures innovation and creativity in the cantons. “The KIKI is the first cantonal index to analyse these key capabilities regionally and in detail,” explains Christoph Hauser, Professor at the Institute of Business and Regional Economics at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts. The index consists of 101 individual indicators, which are divided into four subject areas and eight thematic pillars. Data sources include the Federal Statistical Office and the federal innovation agency Innosuisse.

    Canton Zug leads the ranking
    Based on the data for 2024, the canton of Zug takes first place with just under 60 out of a possible 100 points. It is followed by Basel-Stadt and Zurich. The cantons of Vaud, Neuchâtel and Geneva are close behind in fourth to sixth place. Zug leads in the areas of knowledge, creation and growth, while Basel-Stadt has the highest score for creation. Zurich is well ahead in almost all indicators, except for growth.

    Diverse expressions of innovation and creativity
    The KIKI shows that innovation and creativity are expressed in many different ways. “There is no single, simple means of promoting this,” emphasises Hauser. The cantons at the bottom of the rankings achieve almost half the points of Zug, which is respectable given the high level. Uri with its good growth and Glarus with strong supporting factors deserve special mention.

    The eight pillars of the KIKI
    The KIKI is based on the Global Innovation Index (GII) and consists of input and output factors. Input factors favour innovation and creativity, while output factors measure their impact. The eight pillars include

    • Education and educational success: indicators on supply and success rates in education.
    • Research, development and knowledge: Statistics on research activities and expenditure.
    • Diversity: Diversity of society in terms of ethnic origin, gender and culture.
    • Supporting factors: Framework conditions that promote innovation.
    • Art and culture: Creative forms of expression and their promotion.
    • Patents, trademarks and designs: Protection and utilisation of intellectual property.
    • Companies and start-ups: Start-up activity and growth of companies.

    Innovation and economic strength go hand in hand
    The KIKI shows a close correlation between innovation, creativity and the economic strength of the cantons. Switzerland, which is recognised as the most innovative country in the world according to the Global Innovation Index, benefits from these capabilities. The analysis emphasises the importance of education, research and supportive framework conditions for economic success.

    This article provides a comprehensive and forward-looking overview of Switzerland’s most innovative cantons and the importance of innovation and creativity for economic growth.

  • AI, cyber security and open source

    AI, cyber security and open source

    The Federal Council’s updated “Digital Switzerland” strategy sets clear goals for the country’s digital transformation. It is binding for the Federal Administration and serves as a guide for the cantons, municipalities, business, science and civil society. The aim is for the entire population to benefit from sustainable and responsible digitalisation.

    Focus areas of the strategy
    The Federal Council wants to drive forward the regulation of AI systems and promote their use in the federal administration. The aim is to protect fundamental rights, democracy and the rule of law and to strengthen innovation and competitiveness.

    Strengthening cybersecurity is a key concern. Measures to raise awareness and implement protective measures should ensure the ability to act in crisis situations. New structures should also support the cantons and municipalities.

    The promotion of open source software in the Federal Administration should ensure transparency, innovation and independence. Cooperation with national and international open source communities will be intensified in order to promote the exchange of knowledge.

    Vision and goals
    The strategy aims to prioritise digital services for the benefit of all people in Switzerland. It aims to make targeted use of the opportunities presented by the digital transformation so that everyone benefits in the long term. Switzerland aims to be one of the most digitally competitive and innovative countries in Europe.

    Implementation and dialogue
    The Federal Council is planning advisory board meetings with representatives from business, science, politics, the authorities and civil society to promote dialogue and the further development of the strategy. This collaboration should ensure that the digital transformation is shaped in the common interest.

    International relevance
    The focus topics mentioned in the Swiss digital strategy are also relevant internationally. Countries such as Germany must also address AI, cyber security and open source in order to remain capable of acting in the long term.

  • Lake Zurich heats properties in the Riesbach neighbourhood

    Lake Zurich heats properties in the Riesbach neighbourhood

    Since 26 February, the first 80 properties in the Riesbach district of Zurich have been heated with heat from the Tiefenbrunnen energy network, Energie 360° announced in a press release. When the energy network is completed in 2032, the number of properties heated with heat from the waters of Lake Zurich is expected to rise to around 400. Energie 360° has invested around 60 million Swiss francs in the project.

    “We have reached an important milestone with the commissioning of the main centre and are proud of our contribution to a sustainable heat supply in the Tiefenbrunnen area,” said overall project manager Andreas Abdon from Energie 360° in the press release. For Dženan Draganović from Liegenschaften Stadt Zürich, energy networks such as the one now in operation are crucial for the city’s own net-zero target: “We have set ourselves the goal of heating all properties without fossil fuels by 2035.”

    When completed, the Tiefenbrunnen energy network will be able to supply around 5,300 Tiefenbrunnen residents with renewable heat from Lake Zurich. By replacing fossil heating systems, 6500 tonnes of CO2 can be avoided each year, writes Energie 360°.

  • Listed building celebrates its opening on 8 March

    Listed building celebrates its opening on 8 March

    The town of Dietikon invites you to the inauguration of the Haus der Bevölkerung on Saturday, 8 March. The Haus der Bevölkerung has been set up in the historic tithe barn. The listed building, which dates back to around 1600, will shine in new splendour following extensive renovation and will be available as a versatile event venue in future, according to a press release from the town of Dietikon. With a new digital booking system, reservations for cultural events, exhibitions and private functions will be possible from 1 June.

    On the open day, visitors will be able to view the new premises from 11 a.m. and see for themselves the wide range of possible uses for the building, according to the press release. Sibylle Baumann will be reciting various stories in dialect. At 3 p.m. she will talk about “The golden bird – funny animal stories” and at 4 p.m. she will present “About eating and being eaten – adventurous stories”.

    The Zehntenscheune is one of Dietikon’s oldest buildings. With a capacity of around 120 seats, a new grandstand and modern facilities, the large hall is suitable for events. A passenger lift also provides accessibility.

    The foyer on the ground floor has been redesigned. The massive plank wall, a relic from its original use as a stable or storage room, has been retained. A long bar is intended to turn the foyer into an attractive meeting place. An old archway leading into the garden area of the house was also uncovered.

  • Sustainable energy supply for Frick

    Sustainable energy supply for Frick

    The Basel-based energy supplier IWB has announced the commissioning of the Frick heating network. In addition to the new heating centre with two wood-fired boilers and two heat storage tanks, a 2.1-kilometre-long heating network has also been put into operation, according to a press release. The expansion of the final sections in the first construction phase is to begin on 4 March.

    This will supply private households and businesses in some neighbourhoods of Frick with renewable district heating. The wood-fired boilers will be fuelled with regional wood chips from the Thiersteinberg forestry operation.

    Due to the high demand, IWB is already examining the expansion of the supply area in the Ob em Dorf and Chilmet districts. Both the current and future constructions are associated with a number of traffic restrictions, which will be adapted by the municipality and canton as required. IWB invites you to an open day on the site of the heating centre on 5 April 2025.

  • Property company increases profit and reduces vacancy rate

    Property company increases profit and reduces vacancy rate

    The Zug Estates Group generated net profit excluding revaluations and special effects of CHF 36.9 million in the 2024 financial year, the real estate company, which focuses on the Zug economic and living environment, announced in a press release. This corresponds to year-on-year growth of 9.0 per cent. Shareholders are to participate in the profit with a 6.8 per cent increase in the ordinary dividend.

    The press release cites the Group’s property income as the growth driver. It increased by 5.5 per cent year-on-year to CHF 69.3 million. The Hotel & Catering segment contributed CHF 15.5 million to total income. Total operating income increased by 4.7 per cent to CHF 88.8 million.

    At CHF 58.7 million, Group profit including revaluations and special effects in 2024 was 142.7 per cent higher than in the previous year. The increase is primarily attributable to revaluation gains totalling CHF 24.8 million. In addition, Zug Estates invested a total of CHF 8.1 million in new construction and renovation projects in the year under review. At CHF 1.86 billion, the market value of the Group’s entire portfolio at the end of 2024 was 1.7 percent higher than the previous year’s figure.

    In addition, Zug Etates had a practically fully let property portfolio at the end of the financial year: The vacancy rate was reduced from 3.9 to 0.7 percent compared with the previous year, which was characterised by conversions. In the year under review, the Group was able to extend or conclude new commercial leases totalling more than CHF 5.4 million a year.

  • Lucerne relies on energy from the lake

    Lucerne relies on energy from the lake

    The city of Lucerne and the local supplier energie wasser luzern(ewl) want to work together to create opportunities to cover part of the city’s heating requirements with energy from Lake Lucerne. According to a press release, the aim of switching to lake energy is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from gas, oil, petrol, diesel and paraffin to zero by 2040.

    In order to achieve this goal, the partners have considered possible locations for mostly underground energy centres. From a selection of 100 possible sites, five have emerged from the preliminary process: Three sites are on the left bank of the lake, one each on the right bank and in the Würzenbach supply area.

    Following extensive analysis, these sites were found to be the most suitable. In addition to the energy yield, ownership and criteria such as nature conservation and social impact were also taken into account. Urban planning and feasibility studies should be available by mid-2025. Alternative locations will be announced if there are too many conflicts of interest.

    “It was therefore crucial to involve municipal and cantonal authorities as well as various nature conservation and planning associations in the search for suitable locations,” said Martin Arnold, member of the Executive Board and Head of Realisation at ewl, in the press release. “In this way, we were able to take the various interests into account and harmonise them.”

  • Canton Aargau approves Vinea project in Spreitenbach

    Canton Aargau approves Vinea project in Spreitenbach

    The municipality of Spreitenbach can realise the Vinea design plan for the construction of flats at the entrance to the village. The Department of Construction, Transport and Environment(BVU) of the Canton of Aargau has approved the design plan, according to a press release. It forms the planning basis for the realisation of a development with around 37 flats on the previously commercially used site south of the Landstrasse and Wigartestrasse junction.

    According to the municipality, the planned development comprises three buildings. A four-storey building is to be constructed along Landstrasse, a three-storey building on Wigartestrasse and a two-storey building directly facing the village stream.

    A traffic-free inner courtyard is to be created between the buildings, which will be available to residents. The underground car park is intended to increase the quality of living and contribute to sustainable development.

    Vinea is based on the indicative project by Hunziker Architekten AG in Baden-Dättwil and SKK Landschaftsarchitekten AG in Wettingen AG. Metron AG in Brugg AG drew up the design plan together with the client and the municipality of Spreitenbach. The Vinea site is currently built on with a commercial development. A development study was prepared by Hunziker Architekten back in 2018. After weighing up various options, the municipality decided in favour of a longitudinally oriented development along the road in order to “create optimal urban planning conditions”.

  • Logistics centre in Bedano is operated completely fossil-free

    Logistics centre in Bedano is operated completely fossil-free

    The meat processing company Ernst Sutter AG from Gossau operates its Ticino logistics centre at the Bedano site without the use of fossil fuels. According to a press release, 45 per cent of the power supply for all necessary systems is covered by solar energy and the remainder by hydropower. The solar power is generated by a photovoltaic system on the roof of the centre, where the 271 square metre system produces 55,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year.

    The heating system was switched from oil heating to an air-to-water heat pump system. The heat extracted from the cooling systems is used to produce hot water.

    With the company sites in Gossau and Bazenheid SG, Bedano is now the company’s third site to be supplied with fossil-free energy. “We are setting ourselves ambitious goals to continuously reduce our ecological footprint and thus contribute to a more sustainable future,” Reto Sutter, CEO, is quoted as saying in the press release. “The expansion of renewable energies at our sites plays a central role in this.”

  • Rents in Switzerland continue to rise

    Rents in Switzerland continue to rise

    The monthly rental index compiled by the digital property marketplace Homegate in collaboration with Zürcher Kantonalbank closed at 129.5 points in January. Compared to the previous month, the index rose by just 0.2 per cent, Homegate reported in a press release. In contrast, the property marketplace’s experts recorded a 3.1 per cent increase in asking rents across Switzerland compared to the previous year.

    Within the cantons, Homegate’s experts have observed significant year-on-year increases in many cases. In the canton of Graubünden and the two combined cantons of Appenzell, however, asking rents in January 2025 were 0.8 and 0.5 per cent lower than in January 2024. Appenzell continued the decline that began in the previous month. Graubünden, on the other hand, has somewhat offset the decline of the past two months, but remains below the level of around a year ago, according to the press release.

    In the eight Swiss cities included in the index, the experts have identified consistently rising asking rents over the past twelve months. In the press release, they highlight Lucerne and Basel with increases of 7.7 and 6.6 per cent respectively. Rents in Lucerne were 1.4 per cent lower than in December 2024. At -2.2 per cent, Lugano recorded the sharpest month-on-month decline. Rents in the city of Bern, on the other hand, rose by 0.6 per cent compared to December 2024.

    Homegate is a division of SMG Swiss Marketplace Group AG. This combines the digital marketplaces of TX Group, Ringier and Mobiliar.

  • Interior fit-out specialist looks back on 130 years of company history

    Interior fit-out specialist looks back on 130 years of company history

    Obrist interior AG is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year. Founded in 1885 as a small joinery, the company has “developed into a global industry leader” during this time, writes Obrist interior in a press release. With the celebrations in its anniversary year, the specialist for high-quality interiors in shopfitting and interior design wants to honour its employees in particular. “We would not be where we are today without their skills, commitment and endeavours to achieve the highest level of customer satisfaction,” CEO and owner Stefan Slamanig is quoted as saying in the press release.

    Obrist interior’s recipe for success is based on entrepreneurial agility, the company writes. The company based in Inwil, for example, relied on innovative technologies such as CNC machines, 3D printing, virtual reality and lean management long before these became standard in the industry. “We also work exclusively with the best in the industry when it comes to transport logistics and on-site assembly and always have our own experts on site for quality assurance purposes,” explains Chief Sales Officer Corrado Tona.

    In the press release, CEO Slamanig also refers to the plans announced last year for an extension in Inwil. A modular concept is to be implemented here to create space for more employees, additional production capacity, research and co-working. Obrist interior is currently in the final of the Swiss Venture Club‘s Prix Zentralschweiz 2025 together with four other companies.

  • Project planning credit for Lucerne theatre rejected

    Project planning credit for Lucerne theatre rejected

    With 15,033 votes against compared to 10,914 votes in favour, the project planning loan for the planned Lucerne Theatre was clearly rejected on 9 February 2025. The turnout was 49.67 per cent. The result spells the end for the “überall” project by Ilg Santer Architekten, which was intended as a new stage for music, spoken word and dance theatre.

    City Council expresses disappointment
    The City Council notes the vote with great regret. The planned further development of the Lucerne Theatre cannot be realised with this decision. City President Beat Züsli emphasises: “We have always said that there is no Plan B. What happens next is completely open. This result is a great disappointment for Lucerne’s culture.”

    The location and construction volume of the planned theatre in particular were repeatedly criticised in the public debate. Nevertheless, it is still too early to draw any definitive conclusions. The city council intends to carefully evaluate the results of the vote together with the partner organisations involved.

    Consequences for cultural policy
    The rejection of the loan presents the city of Lucerne with new challenges. The previous plans have been halted and it remains unclear how the future of Lucerne’s theatre can be shaped. Nevertheless, the city council emphasises the importance of dealing constructively with the vote: “It is now our joint task as a city community to find a new solution for theatre culture in Lucerne.”

    Despite the defeat, the city council would like to thank everyone who was involved in the project. The existing partnerships will continue to be cultivated and the impact of the result of the vote on cultural policy will be carefully examined.

  • District heating network in the lower Wiggertal is getting closer

    District heating network in the lower Wiggertal is getting closer

    The energy companies Primeo Energie from Münchenstein and StWZ Energie AG are in the planning stages for the district heating network Fernwärme Unteres Wiggertal (FUWI). According to a press release, their solution envisages the integration of existing networks.

    “The project is an important contribution to the decarbonisation of the heat supply. StWZ and Primeo are convinced that the district heating network in the lower Wiggertal can be realised most effectively if we join forces in a joint company,” Michael Schneider, Managing Director of Primeo Wärme AG, is quoted as saying. The first step will be to expand the district heating network in Oftringen and Zofingen and to integrate the existing district heating networks of both municipalities. Wood combustion in the StWZ energy centres and waste heat from the waste incineration plant (KVA) of Erzo (Entsorgung Region Zofingen) are to be used as climate-neutral heat energy substitutes.

    In addition to StWZ Energie AG Zofingen, EW Oftringen AG and EW Rothrist AG were initially involved in the project. Contrary to the plans, the two regional energy suppliers have withdrawn their commitment to join the company for the time being for various reasons. However, according to the press release, both companies are behind the project for CO2-neutral district heating. Participation at a later date has not been ruled out.

    The question of a future increase in heat consumption from summer 2027 is also still open. The Oftringen electorate will be asked to vote on the construction of a new waste incineration plant and the additional land required for this in November 2025.

  • Winterthur invests in six smart city projects for 2025

    Winterthur invests in six smart city projects for 2025

    Since 2018, Winterthur has been focussing on smart city projects that make the city more efficient, sustainable and liveable. Already 27 projects have been successfully implemented. In 2025, the city will continue to focus on innovative solutions for mobility, digitalisation and ecological urban development.

    The subsidised projects for 2025 are wide-ranging. From the sustainable reuse of building materials to digital registration systems for school sports and an AI-supported cultural calendar. All projects aim to solve existing challenges with creative technologies and new approaches.

    Six funded smart city projects for 2025

    • Sponge city in action: Extreme weather events such as heat and heavy rain are becoming more frequent. This project is testing how green roofs and permeable soils can help to cool the city and better absorb rainwater. The effect of the sponge city elements is visualised in the Grüze innovation laboratory.

    • Winti Re-Use: Construction projects often generate large quantities of recyclable material that has previously been disposed of. A new platform ensures that construction waste is reused sensibly in order to conserve resources and protect the environment.

    • Spitex mobility: Spitex employees are out and about in the city every day – often in their own cars. This project is testing sustainable alternatives such as e-bikes and e-scooters to promote lower-emission mobility and create more flexible transport solutions for care staff.

    • Smart registration for school sports: A digital platform aims to make registering for school sports easier, faster and error-free. Parents and administration benefit from an optimised process that reduces bureaucracy.

    • CulturAI: Winterthur is a lively cultural city, but smaller events often remain in the shadow of larger events. An artificial intelligence (AI) analyses preferences and suggests individually suitable cultural events – even for users with little time for research.

    • Winbib : Unattended opening hours make libraries more flexible to use, so that books and media can also be borrowed in the evenings or at weekends.

    Smart City Winterthur 2030
    The city of Winterthur is pushing ahead with its smart city development in a targeted manner. On 1 January 2025, the City Council adopted the “Smart City Winterthur 2030” strategy. The aim is to actively promote innovation, create new networks for collaboration and further develop the city’s digital transformation.

    By promoting these six projects, Winterthur is demonstrating how modern, sustainable urban development can be achieved through creative approaches and the targeted use of technology.

  • Private investors drive innovation in Zurich

    Private investors drive innovation in Zurich

    The Zurich financial centre is not only an important centre for banks and insurance companies, but also a key factor for the development of young companies. Private investors such as private equity and venture capital companies, multi and single family offices as well as foundations support start-ups with targeted investments that promote innovation and economic growth.

    According to the new study “Zurich Financial Centre 2025/2026”, which was commissioned by the cantonal Office of Economic Affairs and the city’s Urban Development Department, 208 private equity and venture capital companies and over 2,800 foundations are active in the Zurich region. They employ a total of around 3800 people and have made a significant contribution to the development of Zurich as a centre of innovation over the last ten years.

    Growth and financing gaps in the start-up ecosystem
    Between 2014 and 2024, over 900 start-ups were founded in the Zurich region, raising a total of CHF 9.6 billion in various financing rounds. Almost half of the total financing volume of start-ups in Switzerland. In the case of companies whose investor structure is known, around one third of the funds come from regional investors.

    However, the study shows that many start-ups encounter financing hurdles in the next growth phase after initial support from accelerators, incubators and foundations. While private equity and venture capital companies are increasingly getting involved in expansion financing, a financing gap remains. This can lead to young companies moving abroad in order to secure capital for scaling up.

    Zurich as an attractive location for venture capital
    The Zurich region offers ideal conditions for investors thanks to its strong market environment, international network and the availability of highly qualified specialists. Single family offices in particular are playing a growing role, as they enable long-term investments in innovative projects. Swiss single family offices invest an average of 12 per cent of their assets under management in venture capital, of which around CHF 24 billion flows into projects within Switzerland.

    According to Michael Grass from BAK Economics, which conducted the study, it is crucial to close the financing gap in the growth phase of start-ups. This would not only secure the region’s innovative strength, but also reduce the risk of emigration.

    “Strengthening the investor location” initiative launched
    Based on the results of the study, the canton of Zurich is launching the “Strengthening the investor location” sub-project as part of the “Innovation Location 2030” initiative. The Department of Economic Affairs has been tasked with developing targeted measures to improve the attractiveness of the location for venture capitalists. The aim is to optimise the investment conditions for start-ups and scale-ups and expand financing opportunities in the region.

    Concrete strategies are to be developed through dialogue between politics, business and investors in order to further strengthen Zurich as a leading location for venture capital. The city of Zurich is already actively involved in promoting start-ups, including with incubators such as BlueLion and Startzentrum Zürich as well as the city’s KlimUp programme for sustainable innovations.

    The results of the initiative should help to further develop Zurich as a dynamic and competitive investment location and secure the business centre in the long term.

  • More innovation, more craftsmanship, more opportunities Swissbau 2026

    More innovation, more craftsmanship, more opportunities Swissbau 2026

    Swissbau has been one of the most important platforms for the construction and property industry for over 50 years. in 2026, it will present itself with new focal points and strategic partnerships. The specialist areas of plaster, paint, dry construction, solar technology and energy storage have been officially included in the programme for the first time. The cooperation with the Swiss Association of Painting and Plastering Contractors (SMGV) is particularly noteworthy, as it provides for an additional expansion of the exhibitor and visitor segment.

    The co-operation with the SMGV is reflected in various areas of the trade fair. In addition to new live demos and specialist events, the renowned “Swiss Prize for Plaster and Paint” will also be awarded at the trade fair. These additional formats will ensure stronger industry networking and enable exhibitors to make targeted contact with specialists.

    Meeting point for trade: more interaction and Swissness
    A new, interactive area for the building trade will be created in Hall 1.0 under the motto “Swissness”. Here, the trade fair organiser wants to place a stronger focus on the skilled trades as a central component of the construction industry and, in particular, inspire young talent for the sector.

    A special highlight is the interactive house construction area, where various trades work in parallel and demonstrate their skills. Leading tradesmen will also be presenting their materials, tools and technologies. The neighbouring BauBeiz will be a lively meeting place for professionals, manufacturers and interested parties to exchange ideas. The combination of specialist knowledge, practical demonstrations and networking makes this area an important part of Swissbau 2026.

    Creative staging for more experience
    The trend world for interior design will be staged for the first time in Hall 1.2 and offers a modern, high-quality ambience for exhibitors from the bathroom, kitchen, floor/wall/ceiling, lighting and contract furnishing sectors. The redesign will enable stronger content-related networking between the exhibitors and ensure a holistic trade fair experience.

    This reorganisation also sees the return of Saturday as a trade fair day – but exclusively for Hall 1.2 and the Swissbau Focus. The extended opening hours will give both trade visitors with a strong professional commitment and private builders another opportunity to visit the trade fair.

    Knowledge transfer and practical solutions
    With the established Swissbau Focus and Swissbau Lab, the trade fair continues to focus on interdisciplinary exchange and practical solutions. While Swissbau Focus serves as a platform for political, economic and social discussions, Swissbau Lab offers a place where visitors can discover innovative products and sustainable technologies and try them out for themselves.

    Exhibitors also benefit from the new workshop programme, which gives them the opportunity to demonstrate their applications live in a practical environment. This further increases the added value for visitors, as they not only receive information, but can also experience the solutions directly.

  • Basel area funding to continue until 2030

    Basel area funding to continue until 2030

    The Basel-Stadt energy package has proven to be an effective instrument for supporting energy-efficient renovations and the expansion of renewable energies. The current spending authorisation expires at the end of 2025. The cantonal government is therefore applying to the cantonal parliament for an extension of the programme for the years 2026 to 2030 with a funding volume of CHF 51.25 million.

    The future design of the funding measures is based on the 2022 energy planning report and includes new incentives in addition to the continuation of proven programmes. These include energy-related operational optimisation for residential buildings, subsidies for the 1:1 replacement of old heating systems, the regeneration of geothermal probes, bonuses for combined roof and façade renovations with photovoltaics and the promotion of charging infrastructure in multi-party buildings. Municipalities are also to be supported with certification as energy cities.

    Positive impetus for the economy and climate protection
    The energy package has seen high demand in recent years, particularly after the record year of 2022. The support measures provide economic impetus, from which small and medium-sized enterprises in particular benefit.

    An intercantonal comparison shows that the Basel-Stadt energy package has an above-average impact and makes a significant contribution to cantonal energy and climate policy. The cantonal government will report to the cantonal parliament on the utilisation of the funds and the CO₂ impact of the programme halfway through its term.

    With the planned extension, the Basel-Landschaft energy package remains a key instrument for climate protection and sustainable development in the canton of Basel-Landschaft.

  • Saane water to heat Freiburg

    Saane water to heat Freiburg

    By 2027 at the latest, water from the Saane will cover 10 per cent of the heat demand in the Fribourg area, Groupe E announced in a press release. The energy supplier from Granges-Paccot is planning to build a three-part infrastructure to generate around 60 gigawatt hours of renewable thermal energy per year. This is enough to cover the needs of around 7500 households.

    The PLACAD project provides for the expansion of the existing heating centre on the former Ritter site. In future, three water-to-water heat pumps will operate here. They will be supported by two gas boilers in winter or in an emergency.

    The associated pumping station is planned in the Magere Au dam building. The connection between the heating centre and the pumping station is via two parallel pipes, each 1.2 kilometres long. They run through the Perolles forest, under the tennis courts of the Heilig Kreuz college and across the Saane.

    The pipeline route will partly follow existing paths, but any environmental impact will be compensated for, Groupe E explains. This includes plans to extend the Lake Perolles nature reserve to include an island of old woodland. Groupe E will provide information online about any adverse effects on leisure activities in the Perolles forest. The corresponding website also provides an insight into the development of the project.

  • Prices for residential property down, rental prices continue to rise

    Prices for residential property down, rental prices continue to rise

    Prices for residential property fell in the first month of this year, SMG Swiss Marketplace Group(SMG) reports in a press release on the latest Swiss Real Estate Offer Index. Specifically, prices for condominiums in January were 0.6 per cent lower than in December 2024. At the same time, single-family homes were even 2.1 per cent cheaper. In contrast, asking rents rose by 0.9 per cent in the same period.

    Year-on-year, prices for condominiums were 1.0 per cent higher in January. At the same time, prices for detached houses rose by 1.4 per cent. The average price per square metre for condominiums is currently CHF 8834, according to SMG. For single-family homes, the average price per square metre is CHF 7591.

    “Overall, the Swiss property market continues to be characterised by low and possibly falling interest rates,” Martin Waeber, Managing Director Real Estate at SMG Swiss Marketplace Group, is quoted as saying in the press release. The purchase of property is therefore associated with lower financing costs. “However, anyone looking to move into a new tenancy will have to expect price premiums in the coming months due to the tight supply situation,” explains Waeber. The SMG Swiss Marketplace Group brings together the digital marketplaces of TX Group, Ringier and Mobiliar.

  • Key interest rate trend revives property market

    Key interest rate trend revives property market

    The Swiss property market continues to prove resilient despite challenges, CSL Immobilien explains in a press release accompanying its 2025 property market report. Macroeconomic uncertainties and increasing regulatory requirements are cited as such. On the other hand, the gradual reduction in key interest rates by the Swiss National Bank had a positive effect on market dynamics.

    In the rental property market, CSL Immobilien continued to see strong demand in the past year with a shortage of supply. As a result, asking rents rose significantly faster than existing rents and the vacancy rate fell to a record low, according to the press release. Due to the particularly sharp rise in asking rents in cities such as Zurich and Geneva, households are increasingly moving to urban centres with good transport links.

    Prices for residential property also continued to rise last year. According to CSL Immobilien’s surveys, prices in the Zurich economic area rose particularly sharply.

    The office market developed differently in 2024. The supply of available space in the conurbations increased, while rental prices in the periphery fell. In the city centres, on the other hand, rents rose as the supply of space continued to fall. In general, there was increased demand for ESG-compliant office space and flexible utilisation concepts.

    CSL Immobilien anticipates moderate but solid further growth for the current year. “Investors who remain agile and adapt their strategies will be able to successfully capitalise on opportunities in 2025,” Thomas Walter, CEO of CSL Immobilien, is quoted as saying in the press release.

  • Work begins on extension to Baden cantonal school

    Work begins on extension to Baden cantonal school

    Preparations for the extension of the Baden cantonal school have begun with clearing work on the construction site. According to a press release from the Canton of Aargau, this preparatory work will be carried out during the sports holidays from 3 to 14 February. This involves removing shrubbery and felling trees in the Schönaustrasse area in Baden. This work must be carried out before construction work on the extension begins in July 2025.

    The early start is necessary because the tree felling must be carried out outside the bird breeding season from the beginning of March to the end of September. New trees will be planted across the entire site once the extension has been completed. According to the press release, this will once again take greater account of biodiversity on the grounds of Baden Cantonal School.

    The building permit for the extension to the cantonal school has been valid since the end of October 2024. The extension will include an additional wing for maths, IT, natural sciences and technology (STEM subjects) and a sports wing including a double sports hall.

    In addition, the outdoor facilities and sports pitches will be redesigned. The planned extension represents the final expansion of the site based on the current school planning, according to the canton’s press release.

  • Federal government adjusts cost limits for housing subsidies

    Federal government adjusts cost limits for housing subsidies

    The revision responds in particular to the high construction and transport costs in Alpine regions. Non-profit property developers in mountain regions now receive targeted subsidies, as it has been shown that the costs of building materials in these regions are significantly higher than in valley and midland areas.

    Increase in cost limits for affordable housing
    The cost limits for the construction, renovation and acquisition of housing were last adjusted in 2022. Since then, land and construction prices have continued to rise, making the new values necessary. This adjustment ensures that affordable housing continues to be subsidised and maintained.

    • Rental flats average increase of 5.3 %
    • Owner-occupied flats and detached houses Increase of between 4.0 % and 6.7 % depending on property type

    Promotion via guarantees and loans
    The federal government continues to promote housing indirectly, mainly via guarantees and the Fonds de roulement. The latter is managed by the umbrella organisations Housing Switzerland and Housing Cooperatives Switzerland and provides low-interest loans to non-profit property developers.

    Broad approval for the amendment to the ordinance
    The proposed amendment was submitted to the cantons and umbrella organisations for comment – all parties involved were in favour of the amendments. The new ordinance thus creates the basis for continuing to provide affordable housing even in times of rising construction costs.

  • Rising prices and a tight rental market

    Rising prices and a tight rental market

    Zürcher Kantonalbank (ZKB) has published its annual market analysis and confirms the further rise in property prices. Following growth of 3.7% in 2023, prices rose by 3.3% in 2024. Even if the pace has slowed slightly, the trend remains clear: residential property prices in Zurich have risen 2.5-fold in 20 years.

    It is interesting to note that despite lower interest rates, the expected stronger price increase failed to materialise. Demand was more subdued, particularly for new-build properties, which take longer to sell. Nevertheless, ZKB registered an increase in transactions in the second half of 2024, which indicates that demand is picking up again.

    Increasing shortage on the rental flat market
    The tense situation for rental flats continued in 2024. For the first time, the ZKB found that the number of sales advertisements was slightly higher than the number of rental offers – a sign of the continuing dwindling capacity on the Zurich rental market.

    Although the shortage was not quite as drastic as feared, ZKB anticipates a further decline in vacancies in 2025.

    Rents are also rising for existing tenants
    Rents in Zurich rose by an average of 4.5% in 2024 – a significant increase compared to the Swiss average of 3.3%. It is particularly noteworthy that not only new lettings but also existing tenancies were affected by increases.

    This trend is directly attributable to the reference interest rate increases from 2023, which had a delayed impact on rents. In the third quarter of 2024, existing rents in Zurich were 5.4 % higher than in the previous year, while they only rose by 3.3 % across Switzerland. The increase was even higher in the Lake Geneva region.

    Institutional landlords utilised their scope for rent increases more intensively than private owners. However, there are signs of a trend reversal: as the reference interest rate will fall in March 2025, many tenants are likely to demand a reduction in their rent.

    The Zurich property market therefore remains a dynamic field with rising prices for owners and increasing challenges for tenants.

  • Housing situation of older people in Switzerland

    Housing situation of older people in Switzerland

    Low residential mobility despite changing needs
    The majority of over 75-year-olds remain in their homes despite changing housing requirements. Only 5.1 per cent of this age group moved in 2022. The reasons for this are long-term, favourable rental agreements, central residential locations and emotional attachment to the home. High market rents and relocation costs also act as a deterrent. If a move does take place, it usually remains within the region or leads to a care facility.

    Barriers in older residential buildings make everyday life more difficult
    Over 60 per cent of people over the age of 66 live in buildings that are not barrier-free. Stairs, narrow doors or a lack of lifts can make everyday life more difficult and increase the risk of falls and health problems. Necessary renovations are often difficult to realise.

    Loneliness as a key challenge
    77 per cent of older people live alone or with people of the same age, which increases the risk of social isolation. Older women, who are more likely to be single, are particularly affected. Loneliness has a negative impact on physical and mental health and increases the need for support in everyday life.

    Barrier-free housing and better support
    The study recommends better integrating older people into the regular housing market and creating barrier-free housing in a targeted manner. In addition to age-appropriate renovations, new forms of housing close to care facilities are needed. Social networks and support services should also be expanded to enable people to live independently.

    Data-based findings for the future
    The study is based on extensive data analyses on residential buildings, households, income and tenancies. These allow precise insights into the housing situation of older people and provide a scientific basis for future measures.

  • Historic spa centres in the canton of Vaud sustainably renovated

    Historic spa centres in the canton of Vaud sustainably renovated

    The renovated buildings in Bière, Dommartin, Romainmôtier, Rougemont and Vufflens-le-Château date from the 17th to 19th centuries. The restoration was carried out with the utmost care in order to preserve the historical substance. At the same time, facades, roofs, windows, insulation and technical installations were modernised to increase energy efficiency without changing the original character of the buildings.

    “Every restored stone, every renovated roof conveys a message to future generations, that of a canton that takes care to preserve its heritage. By modernising these five cures, we are combining heritage conservation with sustainable development,” emphasised Isabelle Moret, Head of the Cultural Heritage Department, during her visit to the site.

    Strengthening the local economy through traditional crafts
    The renovations were carried out in close collaboration with regional craftsmen. This not only strengthens the local economy, but also provides the canton with valuable craftsmanship expertise. The project shows that monument protection and sustainability are not opposites, but together form a forward-looking strategy for building culture.

  • Photovoltaic system on the roof of the kybunpark stadium to be enlarged

    Photovoltaic system on the roof of the kybunpark stadium to be enlarged

    St.Galler Stadtwerke (SGSW) has expanded its photovoltaic system on the roof of the kybunpark football stadium, home to FC Gallen 1879, as detailed in a press release. A large proportion of the locally generated solar energy – around 440,000 kilowatt hours – will be used for events at the stadium. The symbolic inauguration of the system took place at FC St.Gallen 1879’s home match against FC Lausanne-Sport on 26 January.

    The roof is now completely covered with solar modules. The additional capacity of 572 kilowatts of peak power will enable 560,000 kilowatt hours more electricity to be generated. The total output of the system is now 1,205 kilowatts at peak times, increasing annual electricity production to more than 1 million kilowatt hours. This could cover the annual electricity needs of 288 four-person households.

    This increase in capacity, which will be implemented jointly by SGSW, Stadion St.Gallen AG and FC St.Gallen Event AG between September 2024 and January 2025, means that the system will retain its status as the “largest solar installation on a roof” in the city. The previous photovoltaic system was considered the largest when it was commissioned in 2015, with a peak output of 633 kilowatts and a production of 520,000 kilowatt hours per year.

  • New data centre in Geneva feeds waste heat into the district heating network

    New data centre in Geneva feeds waste heat into the district heating network

    INFOMANIAK, a pan-European cloud provider and developer of web technologies, has inaugurated a new data centre at the company’s Geneva site in the presence of representatives of the authorities and project partners. According to a press release, the electricity consumed by the 10,000 servers installed underground at the centre can be reused as heating energy via the district heating network. Although it is an energy-intensive facility, the data centre is therefore considered an “active player in energy recovery”.

    In November 2024, a start was made on converting 100% of the electricity consumed in this data centre into heat and feeding it into the cantonal district heating network. The server park is currently using 25 per cent of its capacity, and the system should be running at full capacity by 2028. An output of 1.7 megawatts is then expected for the district heating network. “This amount of energy can be used to heat 6,000 Minergie-A households or give 20,000 people a five-minute shower every day,” the press release states.

    The new data centre is intended to change the previous loss of waste heat with a new functional principle. It transfers the heat generated from electricity at a temperature of 40 to 45 degrees to an air-water heat exchanger, which heats a hot water circuit. Heat pumps then allow the water temperature to be increased in order to channel the waste heat into the district heating network.

    The location below a residential area also contributes to the positive climate effect. As a result, there would be no impact on the cityscape. This will solve several major challenges in the cloud industry and take steps towards greater technological independence in Europe, according to the statement.

  • Reuse of blind actuators

    Reuse of blind actuators

    Griesser is giving old JAX actuators a second life. These blind actuators, which are part of Griesser’s top-selling KNX sun shading control system, will be repaired with immediate effect, according to a statement from the sun shading specialist. They will then return to the economic cycle. They are now available for customised configurations on the MyGriesser online platform.

    The KNX variants with their JAX actuators are among Griesser’s national and international bestsellers. With its latest measure to “increase sustainability”, the company wanted to “start where we can achieve the greatest impact”, according to its CEO Urs Neuhauser. That’s why the choice fell on Griesser KNX control solutions.” The promise of quality also applies after the repair, which is why all repaired actuators come with a one-year guarantee. In addition, the other services also apply to the repair objects.

    The project will initially be launched in France. Other Griesser locations are also planned at a later date.

    As Griesser emphasises, the company has long been committed to the circular economy. For example, its aluminium has contained a high proportion of recycled material for several years. With the launch of Green Aluminium in 2024, CO2 emissions per kilogramme are to be reduced by up to 30 percent. According to the information provided, this greener aluminium will initially be used in the window shutter range.