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  • Swiss electricity supply 2050 on the brink of major expansion

    Swiss electricity supply 2050 on the brink of major expansion

    The electrification of transportation, heating and industry will drive electricity consumption from 56 terawatt hours today to around 75 terawatt hours per year. At the same time, 23 terawatt hours will be lost from nuclear power plants. The EDGE research network has calculated that Switzerland can achieve its target of 45 terawatt hours from new renewable energies, but only with a strong expansion of photovoltaics and wind power.

    Expansion of photovoltaics and wind energy
    Photovoltaics would have to quadruple its capacity from the current 6.4 gigawatts to almost 27 gigawatts. Wind power would need to be expanded more than 80-fold, from 0.1 to 8.4 gigawatts by 2050. Wind energy plays a key role, particularly in winter. The researchers emphasize that this expansion would hardly be possible without subsidies.

    Dependence on the European electricity market
    The Electricity Act limits winter imports to a maximum of 5 terawatt hours. Strict implementation would significantly increase investments and costs. More wind and solar power plants would be needed and the price of electricity could double. Restricting EU electricity trading by 70 percent would require additional wind capacity and further increase costs. EDGE researchers therefore see access to the European electricity market as crucial.

    Investments flow abroad
    More than half of Swiss investments in renewable energy projects currently flow abroad, primarily to Germany, France and Italy. Only around one percent remains in Switzerland. The reason for this is the limited opportunities for realization in Switzerland. Wind energy projects in particular are financed by Swiss investors abroad.

    Costs of the energy transition
    The transformation to net zero will result in rising prices for fossil fuels, goods and services. For Swiss households, this means annual consumption losses of 0.6 to 1 percent, depending on the scenario. If emissions are not offset abroad, the burden will increase further. At the same time, the researchers emphasize that the costs of unchecked climate change would be significantly higher.

    Switzerland can achieve its energy targets by 2050, but only with a massive expansion of photovoltaics and wind energy, close European market integration and targeted investments. The challenge remains to reconcile security of supply, climate targets and costs.

  • Federal Council strengthens agenda for location attractiveness

    Federal Council strengthens agenda for location attractiveness

    The international environment remains volatile. The USA is questioning trade relations and distancing itself from the OECD minimum tax reform, while the EU is focusing on competitiveness and reducing bureaucracy. For Switzerland, this means risks, but also opportunities. Its stable framework conditions, open economy and excellent research landscape continue to provide advantages in global competition.

    Improved location conditions are key
    The Federal Council is intensifying its economic policy agenda and prioritizing measures that reduce companies’ production costs. In addition, alternative sales markets are to be developed and legal and planning security strengthened. Important successes include the new free trade agreement with India and the conclusion of negotiations with Mercosur.

    Relief for companies
    Switzerland has created a key instrument in the form of the Corporate Relief Act (UEG), which is now to be implemented consistently. New burdens are to be avoided, existing regulations reviewed and simplified in a targeted manner. The evaluation of selected areas of regulation plays a central role in this.

    Focus on short-time work and export promotion
    The Federal Council is currently examining swiftly effective measures for short-time work compensation. An extension of the benefit period from 18 to 24 months within a framework period is being discussed. At the same time, the need for additional steps in export promotion is being analyzed in order to protect Swiss companies in a challenging environment.

    Although around 10 percent of Swiss goods exports are affected by additional US tariffs, the Federal Council does not expect a recession comparable to the financial crisis or the pandemic. An economic stimulus program is therefore not considered necessary. However, the analysis of the economic situation will be continued on an ongoing basis so that targeted action can be taken if necessary.

  • SMEs fight for skilled workers and rely on flexibility

    SMEs fight for skilled workers and rely on flexibility

    Despite rising unemployment figures, the labor shortage remains the dominant concern for SMEs. According to the latest AXA labor market study, 44% of companies had great difficulty filling vacancies, while a further 40% struggled with recruitment problems at least to some extent. Highly specialized specialists and managers are particularly in demand and difficult to find. At the same time, increasing staff shortages are causing further stress.

    Competition from the state and corporations
    Two thirds of SMEs feel under pressure from large companies and state institutions in the competition for talent. While SMEs score points with values such as team spirit, closeness and appreciation, they remain at a disadvantage when it comes to wages, career opportunities and pensions.

    Team spirit beats specialist knowledge
    Insufficient specialist knowledge is considered the most common recruitment problem. Nevertheless, the study shows that soft factors are often decisive. Almost three quarters of companies prefer applicants with better teamwork skills to candidates with stronger but less compatible specialist knowledge. Reliability and honesty are among the most sought-after qualities.

    Diversity as a goal without clear implementation
    More than half of SMEs state that they consider diversity to be important. However, concrete measures remain the exception, with only 45 percent having introduced corresponding programs. Particularly in the area of recruitment, diversity often remains a non-binding goal without strategic anchoring.

    Employees with more power
    The study shows a clear shift in negotiating power in favor of employees. Two thirds of SMEs see their employees in a stronger position. Higher wage demands, demands for flexible working hours and changed behavior characterize the situation. Larger SMEs in particular are clearly observing this development.

    Flexibility as a response
    More than half of the companies surveyed are responding with flexible working time models and part-time options. Individual solutions for workloads, additional benefits and social services complement the strategies. Although salary increases play a role, they remain secondary to flexibilization.

    Outlook and succession issues
    Despite the challenges, 91% of SMEs are optimistic about the future. Economic uncertainties, changing customer requirements and the lack of young talent are a cause for concern. Succession planning in particular remains critical. 44% of companies rate the search for suitable solutions as difficult.

  • Simple building needs courage and less bureaucracy

    Simple building needs courage and less bureaucracy

    The term “building type E” stands for straightforward, pragmatic construction with reduced standards. This is enshrined in law in Germany and is possible in Switzerland as long as the minimum legal requirements such as fire protection and statics are met. Obstacles do not arise from paragraphs, but from excessive comfort requirements, a lack of expertise on the part of the authorities and pressure from investors.

    Conversion instead of new build as a lever
    The current regulations reach their limits, particularly in existing buildings. Conversions are often assessed according to the standards of a new building, which drives up costs and hurdles. Beat Flach, lawyer, National Councillor and SIA legal consultant, calls for more proportionality. Conversions should be treated more pragmatically, including when it comes to energy requirements. This would allow new, more affordable apartments to be built more quickly and save CO₂ at the same time.

    Standards as an opportunity, not a shackle
    SIA standards are not a rigid corset, but allow for alternative approaches. Planners can also achieve goals in other ways or define them through agreements. It is crucial that architects, engineers and authorities recognize and make use of this leeway. The fear of objections and dependence on third-party guidelines are currently leading to unnecessary bureaucracy and rising construction costs.

    Reforms for building permits
    The procedures are considered overly complex. Flach advocates a two-stage approval process. First a simplified examination of the central issues with the possibility of objection, followed by detailed clarification. This would give investors security, speed up the construction process and reduce costs.

    “Simple construction” does not mean less quality, but more courage to find pragmatic solutions. The key lies in conversion, in more flexible standards and in clear political guidelines. Only when planners, authorities and politicians pull together can construction become faster, cheaper and more sustainable.

  • New tower approved for Zurich Airport

    New tower approved for Zurich Airport

    The current tower was put into operation together with Dock A in 1985 and has reached the end of its service life after almost 40 years. The new tower is being built to the north of the existing site and will provide air traffic controllers with an optimized overview of ground and air traffic. Functionality, sustainability and workplace quality will be raised to a new level.

    Part of a major project
    The construction of the new tower is closely linked to the replacement construction of Dock A. Both projects were submitted by Flughafen Zürich AG 2023 and examined in a joint procedure. While the tower has now been approved in a partial decision, the process for the new Dock A is still ongoing. Until its completion, the tower will initially be operated as an independent building.

    Focus on sustainability
    The project is being led by architects Bjarke Ingels Group and is based on a construction method using wood as the main material. The roof of the new dock will be fully equipped with photovoltaics and is expected to cover up to two thirds of the electricity requirements. With an investment volume of around 700 million Swiss francs, the new Dock A replacement building is one of the most important infrastructure projects of the coming years.

    Objections and outlook
    Several objections to the project have been received, including from affected municipalities. According to DETEC, however, the construction itself will not lead to additional aircraft noise. On the contrary, emissions in the surrounding area could even decrease. Construction of the tower is scheduled to start in 2027 and the new Dock A is not expected to open before 2030. A third of all passengers at Zurich Airport use Dock A, so its renewal is seen as central to airport operations in the future.

    With the new tower and Dock A, Zurich Airport is focusing on a sustainable and functional infrastructure that meets the increasing demands of air traffic and environmental protection. The project combines high-tech air traffic control with modern building culture, a strong signal for the future of Swiss air traffic.

  • Molecular light chain opens up paths for quantum technologies

    Molecular light chain opens up paths for quantum technologies

    Porphyrins are central building blocks of nature. They form the basis for haemoglobin in the blood or chlorophyll in plants. In combination with metal centers, they acquire versatile chemical and physical properties. Empa researchers have now used this principle to specifically dock porphyrins to a graphene nanoribbon with zigzag edges. The binding was carried out with the utmost precision and forms a kind of molecular chain with precisely defined distances.

    Magnetism meets quantum logic
    The graphene ribbon has its own edge magnetism, while the metal centers of the porphyrins contribute conventional magnetism. Both systems have been successfully coupled, a decisive step for quantum technological applications. The hybrid material could function as a series of networked qubits in which spins are used as information carriers.

    Electronics and optics in one system
    The porphyrins are not only magnetically active, but also optically effective. They can emit light, the wavelength of which is influenced by the magnetic state. A kind of molecular light chain that transmits information through color changes. Conversely, the system can be excited by light, which changes the conductivity and magnetism of the graphene ribbon. This opens up a wide range of applications from chemical sensors to innovative electronic components.

    Building blocks for the future
    The synthesis of these structures requires complex processes. Under ultra-high vacuum and at high temperatures, the precisely designed starting molecules are “baked” on a gold surface to form the chains. Supported by the Werner Siemens Foundation, the Empa team is now working on developing even more versatile systems by varying the metal centers and graphene widths. The aim is to create designer materials that form the basis for future quantum technologies.

    The combination of porphyrins and graphene opens up a new class of molecular systems. It combines chemistry, magnetism and optics in nanoscale structures and lays the foundation for the electronics and quantum technology of tomorrow.

  • New silicon acids could destroy “eternal chemicals”

    New silicon acids could destroy “eternal chemicals”

    Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, PFAS for short, are considered “eternal chemicals” as they do not degrade in the environment. Their highly stable carbon-fluorine bond resists light, water and microorganisms. This is precisely where the newly developed super Lewis acids come in. They exhibit extreme “electron greed” and directly attack the resistant structures of PFAS.

    Complex production with a big impact
    For a long time, these compounds were only considered a theoretical concept. Only innovative methods such as protolysis made it possible to produce them synthetically. Proven processes from carbon chemistry were transferred to silicon. The experiments were highly sensitive. They had to be carried out in an inert gas atmosphere, as even the slightest traces of oxygen or water would prevent the reactions.

    Quantum mechanics provides the key
    For the first time, the strength of these molecules was fully predicted using quantum mechanics. These calculations not only confirmed the extreme reactivity, but also enabled a precise understanding of the mechanisms. Spectroscopic methods such as NMR validated the predictions. The combination of theory and experiment is therefore a milestone in catalysis research.

    Catalysts for environmental protection
    The new super Lewis acids behave like catalysts. They change during the reaction, but regenerate again and are not permanently consumed. This means that the smallest quantities are sufficient to render highly toxic PFAS compounds harmless… A decisive advantage over previous approaches.

    With silicon-based super Lewis acids, a realistic solution to the global PFAS problem is within reach for the first time. They could become a key instrument for recycling, green chemistry and the protection of the environment and health.

  • Lock-in effect blocks the housing market

    Lock-in effect blocks the housing market

    While existing rents remain stable or even fall over the years, asking rents are rising sharply. A study by Zürcher Kantonalbank shows that anyone who moved into an apartment in the canton of Zurich in 2008 pays an average of 3.3 percent less today. New tenants, on the other hand, have to pay over 33 percent more. This so-called “stay bonus” means that moving is financially unattractive for many.

    Lock-in effect paralyzes use of living space
    The result is a distorted use of living space. Family apartments remain in place even after the children have moved out, and rooms in shared flats are not reallocated. The lock-in effect keeps older generations in apartments that are too large, while young families can hardly find adequate living space. Large cities are particularly affected, where regulations further exacerbate the effect.

    Consequences for society and the economy
    The stagnation of the rental market has far-reaching consequences. Younger households can hardly find larger apartments to start a family, while the older generation lives in oversized living spaces. At the same time, the problem hits low-income households particularly hard. If they were to move, a significant proportion of this group would have to pay more than 40 percent of their income on rent.

    Solutions required
    This could be remedied by increased construction activity, tax incentives for moving to smaller apartments and innovative housing and financing models. At municipal level, flexible framework conditions are needed to expand the supply. It is also crucial to design regulations in such a way that they do not unintentionally reinforce the lock-in effect and thus harm the very groups that are supposed to be protected.

    The lock-in effect is a recent but increasingly dominant phenomenon in the rental market. It leads to inefficient use of living space, social imbalance and a loss of dynamism. Only with more new construction, creative market models and targeted political incentives can the blockade be broken and the housing market get moving again.

  • Barrier-free doors thanks to invisible damping system

    Barrier-free doors thanks to invisible damping system

    Dormakaba has launched a new soft-closing system for doors. The global locking technology company from Rümlang has launched IST Home, a system that enables doors in the home to be opened and closed smoothly and allows barrier-free passage, according to a press release. A similar soft-closing system is already known from drawers and kitchen furniture.

    With IST Home, the level of damping can be adjusted via a valve. To open the door, gentle pressure is sufficient to overcome an initial resistance. The door also closes gently without the door leaf hitting. The IST Home system can be fully integrated into the door for frames and full-leaf doors with a thickness of at least 40 millimetres and a maximum weight of up to 100 kilograms. This means that no components are visible from the outside. According to the company, the new system is durable and maintenance-free.

  • Digital twins for energy systems are gaining in importance

    Digital twins for energy systems are gaining in importance

    Sympheny has reached a milestone on its journey as a partner of Californian company ESRI and its Swiss branch in Zurich: Sympheny, which was founded in 2020 and is based in Technopark Winterthur, has officially completed ESRI’s three-year start-up programme.

    The “invaluable support, resources and opportunities” received during this time have made it possible to integrate the global company’s geodata technology into its own solutions for energy systems. “From optimising urban energy planning to improving spatial decision making, the ESRI ecosystem has been instrumental in driving our innovation,” Sympheny said.

    Sympheny offers digital twin-based services for energy planners and managers to enable them to achieve their sustainability goals “with minimum cost and maximum confidence,” the start-up said in a self-promotion. “Digital twin algorithms = intelligent services.” To this end, Sympheny provides its subscription-based SaaS platform on which they can develop, manage and continuously use their digital twin of the energy system.

    In the next phase, the partnership between Sympheny and ESRI will be deepened with new joint projects. Sympheny is also “proud to have ESRI as an observer in our GOES project“. GOES is an EU Horizon 2020 project in which innovative geodata solutions for energy planning are being researched. It is coordinated by the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology(Empa) in Dübendorf ZH and comprises eight partners from five EU countries and the USA.

    According to the press release, Sympheny is also looking forward to further collaboration with the Urban ArcGIS team, ESRI’s web-based 3D solution for urban planning projects. Sympheny is particularly keen to promote the topic of energy.

  • Swissbau 2026 provides strong impetus

    Swissbau 2026 provides strong impetus

    Die Trendwelt Innenausbau in Halle 1.2 bleibt auch am Samstag geöffnet. Tobias Hofmeier begrüsst Ausstellerinnen und Fachpublikum als neuer Messeleiter.
    Aussteller der Swissbau 2026 erhalten in diesen Wochen ihren Platzierungsvorschlag. Keine einfache Aufgabe für die Messeverantwortlichen – gibt es doch sehr viel Neues an der nächsten Ausgabe. Das Team der Swissbau hat die beliebte Mehrbranchenmesse mit neuen Ideen gespickt, um grosse und kleine Marken für eine Teilnahme zu begeistern.

    Treffpunkt Handwerk mit «Swissness»
    In Halle 1.0 bietet ein lebendiger Treffpunkt für das Handwerk dem vielfältigen Wirtschaftszweig eine starke Lobby. Highlight der 2500 Quadratmeter grossen Fläche ist der Bau eines doppelstöckigen Holzhauses und einer modernen Stahlhalle von verschiedenen, parallel arbeitenden Gewerken. Zum Austausch und Fachsimpeln bietet die BauBeiz ausreichend Platz. Berufsstolz steht hier hoch im Kurs, genau wie auf den spielerischen Aktionsflächen daneben.

    Neue Kooperationen für mehr Vielfalt
    Nicht nur in Halle 1.1 führt eine neugeborene Kooperation mit dem Schweizerischen Maler- und Gipserunternehmer-Verband SMGV zu verschiedenen Inszenierungen. Live-Demos, Trainings, Veranstaltungen sowie Ausstellung und Auszeichnung des renommierten «Schweizer Preis für Putz und Farbe» mobilisieren die kreative Branche und bieten Herstellern ein attraktives Umfeld zur Produktpräsentation.

    Eine neue Plattform für den Innenausbau
    Die grösste Veränderung betrifft die designorientierte Trendwelt, die von Halle 2.2 in die modernere Halle 1.2 umzieht. Messeleiter Rudolf Pfander erzählt: «Die Trendwelt Bad wird auf den Innenausbau erweitert. Aussteller profitieren von einem hochwertigen Ambiente sowie neuen Synergien der Bereiche Bad, Boden/Wand/Decke, Licht, Büro- und Objekteinrichtung auf einer gemeinsamen Ebene.» Ein zusätzlicher Vorteil: Nur die Trendwelt hat am Samstag für unter der Woche ausgelastete Fachbesucher sowie private Eigentümerinnen und Bauherren geöffnet.

    Swissbau unter neuer Führung
    Seit 25 Jahren leitet Rudolf Pfander die Geschicke der Swissbau und führte sie erfolgreich in die Neuzeit. Um nach der Ausgabe 2026 neue Aufgaben bei MCH Exhibitions & Events zu übernehmen, übergibt er bereits diesen September die Nachfolge an seinen Stellvertreter Tobias Hofmeier. Der 36jährige Lörracher lenkt seit 2020 das Swissbau Projektmanagement sowie die erfolgreiche Entwicklung der Kollaborations-Plattformen Swissbau Focus und Lab.

    Breites Angebot an Präsenzen
    Vom Individualstand über die All-In-Theke bis zur Neuheiten-Demonstration im Swissbau Lab: Wer an der Swissbau 2026 präsent sein möchte, kann aus einer Vielzahl an Teilnahmemöglichkeiten wählen. Tobias Hofmeier und sein Team freuen sich über jede Kontaktaufnahme. Er präzisiert: «Unsere Kunden können sicher sein, dass wir ihre Bedürfnisse an erste Stelle setzen und gemeinsam eine passende Präsenzmöglichkeit finden».

    Unterstrichen wird die anhaltende Relevanz der Swissbau durch namhafte Partnerschaften. Der Schweizerische Ingenieur- und Architektenverein SIA, die Schweizer Marke LAUFEN sowie der neue Partner Abacus Business Solutions engagieren sich an der Swissbau 2026 in grossem Umfang und bringen ihre Expertisen ein.

    Swissbau 2026 – die führende Plattform der Bau- und Immobilienwirtschaft in der Schweiz

    Messedauer, Öffnungszeiten
    20.- 23./24. Januar 2026
    Dienstag bis Freitag, 9 bis 18 Uhr
    Samstag Zusatztag Innenausbau in Halle 1.2, 9 bis 16 Uhr

    Weitere Informationen
    swissbau.ch

  • Red Dot Award for Swiss office furniture series

    Red Dot Award for Swiss office furniture series

    Lista Office Group AG, based in Degersheim, has received a Red Dot Award 2025. The modular LO Summit desk and table series from its Lista Office LO brand was honoured with the award for product design. According to the jury’s statement, LO Summit “impresses with its versatility, elegance and intelligent design. The well thought-out accessories and formal versatility are also appealing.”

    Thanks to the large selection of materials, table shapes and base designs, LO Summit is suitable as a conference table and team workstation. This allows the customer a high degree of individuality for stylish meeting and exchange zones. Cable ducts and integrated cable guides ensure that everything is organised under the tables. The products can be extended with accessories such as clip-on privacy screens, electrical boxes, table lamps or raised shelves.

    “With the Red Dot Design Award 2025, the expert jury is honouring an overall concept of design quality and a high level of focus on needs and benefits,” said Claudia Ceotto, Product Manager at Lista Office LO, in a press release. “LO Summit impressively demonstrates that the essence of future-proof office furniture design lies in modularity, agility and realisation quality.”

    The Red Dot Award is one of the most prestigious international design competitions. in 2025, entries were reportedly received from over 60 different countries. They were assessed by an independent jury of 43 experts from 21 nations and various fields of activity such as design, media, education and consulting.

  • Track construction and modernisation at Speicher station

    Track construction and modernisation at Speicher station

    According to a press release, the Dietiker construction company Walo Bertschinger AG is contributing its many years of experience in track construction in the municipality of Speicher. Construction work is underway there to remodel the railway station. Walo is carrying out the track and points work to optimise the track systems for smooth rail traffic. According to the information provided, Walo is helping “to ensure that railway lines remain sustainable, safe and reliable so that the mobility of today and tomorrow is guaranteed”.

    The construction work is expected to last until mid-September 2025 and will include the creation of comfortable and barrier-free platforms, new surfaces and drainage systems for greater safety and durability. The lighting and equipment are also to be modernised for a pleasant station experience.

    The municipality of Speicher in the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden is pursuing plans for greater sustainability. These include the increased use of renewable energies, energy-efficient construction and environmentally friendly mobility. The railway station renovation is also one of the sustainability projects in Speicher. The municipality is endeavouring to equip it with LED lighting, ecological materials and barrier-free access. The aim is to create a climate-friendly and modern public transport system.

  • Pilot project for intelligent automated mobility is progressing

    Pilot project for intelligent automated mobility is progressing

    The Swiss Transit Lab(STL) from Schaffhausen, the cantons of Zurich and Aargau and SBB have started the mapping phase of the intelligent automated mobility (iamo) pilot project. With the creation of a digital map of the region, the use of self-driving vehicles in the Furttal is being prepared, according to a press release. Before the service can be used in the Furttal, a training phase and a test phase will be carried out following the mapping.

    As part of the project, the project partners want to make automated vehicles available to travellers and find out how this could further develop public transport in the future. Two electric cars equipped with WeRide technology are now on the road in the Furttal valley for the first time. However, these are still being driven by a driver for the time being.

    During the mapping phase, the roads in the pilot area are now being travelled manually. The vehicle sensors record the surroundings and create a digital map that will contain more information than a classic navigation map. In addition to real-time images, the map will provide the basis for the safe navigation of self-driving vehicles in the future. As soon as this phase has been completed and the exceptional authorisation for automated driving has been granted by the Federal Roads Office(FEDRO), the training and test phase will follow. The vehicles will learn the traffic rules and typical situations in the pilot area and then drive automatically, initially under the supervision of a safety driver.

    The public launch of the vehicles is scheduled for the first half of 2026. Up to four passenger cars can then be ordered for a fee via an app and take passengers from a defined stop to another stop in the pilot region. Various measures are intended to ensure data protection and data security. The fleet is also to be expanded to include minibuses in future.

  • Photovoltaic system combines culture with sustainability

    Photovoltaic system combines culture with sustainability

    In future, the Museum Langmatt will produce renewable solar power with a 40/45 kilowatt photovoltaic system, enough for the annual consumption of 15 to 20 flats. The grey in-roof modules were installed by Regionalwerke Baden. According to a statement from Regionalwerke, the modules were in keeping with the spirit of the museum, which was built by Sidney Brown, co-founder of the technology group ABB: “Contemporary technology is perfectly compatible with the historical spirit of the Langmatt,” says Markus Stegmann, Director of the Langmatt Museum.

    The PV system is installed on the roof of the newly installed glass pavilion in the park, which was built as part of the complete renovation and expansion of the complex. “The pavilion is intended for readings, concerts and aperitifs for group visits,” says Stegmann.

    While the PV modules have already been in operation for a month, the renovation work is not expected to be completed until next year. The art nouveau villa Langmatt, which now houses the museum, was built around 125 years ago on behalf of the art-loving industrialist couple Brown. The museum therefore houses an important collection of French Impressionists such as Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

  • Higher earnings and project progress drive half-year figures

    Higher earnings and project progress drive half-year figures

    According to a statement, real estate company HIAG increased its net profit by 23.3 per cent to CHF 44.6 million in the first half of 2025 (prior-year period: CHF 36.2 million). Adjusted for revaluation effects, net profit totalled CHF 20.5 million, compared to CHF 25.5 million in the first half of 2024.

    EBIT also rose by 20 per cent to CHF 54.9 million. This was due to higher property income, increased valuations, successful sales of properties not in line with the strategy and strict cost discipline. The real estate company increased its property income by 5.8 per cent to CHF 39.3 million (prior-year period: CHF 37.1 million) thanks to several successful lettings of vacant space and successful project completions, such as the completion of the Fahrwerk in Winterthur. Marketing of the Livingstone project in Cham ZG also began in the reporting period.

    Project progress in the first half of the year led to a net appreciation of the development portfolio by CHF 17.2 million (2.2 per cent). The existing portfolio was revalued by CHF 9.4 million (0.8 per cent); the overall portfolio was thus revalued by CHF 26.6 million. Income from the successful sale of non-strategic properties totalled CHF 3.5 million, an increase compared to the previous year, in which no properties were sold.

    HIAG expects continued positive developments in 2025 thanks to further project progress, the notarisation of the condominiums in the Livingstone project, a sharpened corporate strategy, a strong balance sheet and a flexible financing structure.

  • Sustainable holiday concepts receive growth capital

    Sustainable holiday concepts receive growth capital

    The Zug-based private equity firm Limestone Capital has acquired 30 per cent of the shares in Nokken, a provider of ecological holiday flats from the UK.

    Nokken intends to use the investment to expand its market position in Europe and the USA and to enter the Asian and Austro-Asian markets. The funds will primarily be used to enter into strategic partnerships with landowners and operators, acquire key parts of Nokken’s supply chain and expand sales and marketing capabilities. “The investment is a milestone for Nokken and a validation of our vision for the future of the hospitality industry,” said Nathan Aylott, co-founder of Nokken, in a press release,

    Nokken focuses on nature-based experiences that are lower cost, quick to implement and more appealing to guests. The company’s “retreat” model with the modular design of its holiday cabins enables scalable nature experiences while minimising land impact, using ecological materials and avoiding the high infrastructure requirements of conventional construction methods, according to the company.

    Limestone Capital is committed to investing in experience-focused platforms with over €1bn AUM (assets under management) in the lifestyle and hospitality sectors. The partial acquisition of Nokken signals the capital firm’s commitment to sustainable businesses in the hospitality industry: “This investment is not just pure capital – it is a partnership based on shared values,” said Grazi Panelli, CEO of Limestone Capital. “Nokken offers meaningful, nature-based experiences without compromising on design or environmental responsibility.”

  • Students consider Food Factory in Basel

    Students consider Food Factory in Basel

    Under the theme Feed the city, students from the Institute of Architecture at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland(FHNW) have spent a year examining the issue of sustainable food supplies. They developed concepts for setting up a food factory on the Rosental Mitte site in Basel, Immobilien Basel-Stadt reported in a press release. The cantonal contact for property management wants to transform the former company site into a district for living, working, research, leisure and sport.

    According to the FHNW students, the eight-storey former dye packaging warehouse in Rosental Mitte is the ideal location for a food factory. The “robust structure with its large spans, high ceilings and high load-bearing capacity” is “very suitable for new utilisation ideas”, they write in the press release. Building 1055, which is worth preserving, could also “serve as a meeting point in the neighbourhood and at the same time impart knowledge about food production”.

    The planned Food Factory in the centre of Basel is intended to visualise the entire food cycle, from production to processing and consumption through to waste recycling. To this end, the students have developed concepts for production and distribution and investigated interfaces with catering and research. The potential of new foods such as algae has also been taken into consideration.

  • Local communities to promote solar expansion

    Local communities to promote solar expansion

    The city of Zurich is interested in expanding solar power production in the city as quickly as possible. To this end, the city’s own electricity utility(ewz) is launching a new offer via local electricity communities (LEG). In future, owners of large photovoltaic systems (PV systems) will be able to sell their surplus electricity directly to households in the neighbourhood, the city administration announced in a press release. Previously, it was only possible to feed surplus electricity into the ewz grid.

    With the ewz.solarquartier offer, ewz will take over the networking of interested producers and consumers of solar power as well as administration and billing. The owners receive a stable revenue of 12 centimes per kilowatt hour supplied. “This means that LEG can generate up to 10 per cent more revenue than with the return delivery alone,” explains ewz Director Benedikt Loepfe. Households purchase the electricity at the price of the standard ewz.natur product.

    “The installed capacity of PV systems in the city of Zurich has more than quadrupled in the last ten years or so,” explains City Councillor Michael Baumer. The city wants to further strengthen this growth trend wherever possible, explains the head of the Department of Industrial Operations, where ewz is based. “In addition to the various measures already underway, a good offer for LEG helps to make the realisation of solar installations in the city even more attractive.”

  • Gebäudeversicherung Bern joins forces with Designform for sustainable remodelling

    Gebäudeversicherung Bern joins forces with Designform for sustainable remodelling

    Björn Ischi’s Designform GmbH has worked on the remodelling of the first floor at GVB – Gebäudeversicherung Bern in Ittigen. Together with the GVB team, “upcycling by design in its most beautiful form” was realised, writes Ischi in a post on LinkedIn. Specifically, material that was removed during the renovation was not disposed of, but reused directly on site.

    For example, “cool seating areas” were created from former wall sections of the old design for the new furnishings. Because not only can mobile phones and laptops be charged there, but users can also recharge their own batteries, the GVB team gave these seating areas the name “Powerbanks”, explains Ischi. For the owner and product designer of Designform GmbH, however, the project in Ittigen was “more than just upcycling with style”.

    This is because the GVB employees were involved in the planning and realisation of the conversion via two workshops. In the first workshop, needs were identified and ideas developed. In the second workshop, the employees then lent a hand in building the furniture themselves. “Screwdrivers instead of keyboards and suddenly the teams were literally behind the furniture,” says Ischi. Furniture specialist Girsberger from Thunstetten BE provided professional support for the project.

  • Robot system optimises lift installation in Singapore

    Robot system optimises lift installation in Singapore

    Schindler’s robotic installation system for lifts, Schindler R.I.S.E, has been used in the new Shaw Tower in Singapore. As the Ebikon-based company reports in a LinkedIn post, the robot plays a key role in the installation by reducing manual labour, improving site safety and increasing the overall efficiency of the installation process. The self-climbing robot autonomously performs installation steps such as drilling and placing anchor bolts.

    With the R.I.S.E system, installation steps can be completed faster than with conventional installation methods. While the system works independently and requires no operation, a camera mounted on the platform enables remote monitoring. In addition, a Schindler R.I.S.E operator remains on site during the installation period for quality control and support.

    “Schindler R.I.S.E is now being used successfully on numerous construction sites around the world. It has not only impressed customers and colleagues with its unrivalled speed and accuracy, but has also drastically improved working conditions for our employees. It is innovation at its best,” says Urs Püntener, Head of Global Fulfilment at the Schindler Group, via the company website.

  • Renovation incentives secure energy targets and the construction industry

    Renovation incentives secure energy targets and the construction industry

    The building stock plays a key role in reducing emissions and closing the winter electricity gap. Energy modernization measures such as better insulation or the replacement of fossil fuel heating systems with heat pumps are key levers for achieving energy and climate targets. However, without targeted incentives, the necessary momentum to trigger investments on a large scale is lacking.

    Criticism of the imputed rental value bill
    The bill to be voted on on September 28 not only provides for the abolition of the imputed rental value, but also the elimination of deductions for building maintenance and energy-related investments. Bauenschweiz warns that this threatens to put a stop to renovations, with serious consequences for local SMEs in the construction and crafts sector and for climate protection. Instead of creating incentives, such a system change would prevent renovations, weaken the trade and place a burden on SMEs.

    Study shows enormous efficiency potential
    A recent study by Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts and FLUMROC illustrates just how great the opportunities are. A combination of heat pumps and an optimized building envelope could reduce electricity consumption in Switzerland by 5.3 terawatt hours per year. This could cover almost ten percent of total consumption and practically close the winter electricity gap.

    Switzerland is at a turning point in its energy policy. Instead of creating barriers to investment, we need framework conditions that promote energy-efficient renovations, strengthen the construction industry and fully exploit the contribution of the building stock to the climate transition.

  • Green spaces as ecological capital for cities

    Green spaces as ecological capital for cities

    Studies show that in cities such as Bern, there are dozens of hectares of what is known as “distance green”. Lawns with no function that are merely mowed. These areas are a previously unused asset. They could store rainwater, cool the urban climate and create habitats for diverse species. Instead of being viewed in isolation, they need to be understood as an interconnected ecosystem.

    Planning beyond plot boundaries
    Climate change and biodiversity do not stop at plot boundaries. Nevertheless, the competence of property owners is limited to their plots. To realize the potential of urban green spaces for climate resilience and biodiversity, we need political guidelines, cooperative action and new professions that professionally maintain and develop urban green spaces. A systemic approach to urban development is essential.

    Landscape architecture with a claim to leadership
    Architecture shapes urban development with grand gestures, but the robustness and sustainability of urban systems lies in open spaces. This is where landscape architecture has its strength. It can create resilient, ecological structures with minimal resources. This requires more self-confidence in the discipline and a willingness to take a leading role in urban development.

    Education for the future
    In order to meet the growing demand for landscape architects, new training paths are needed. A Bachelor’s degree course at Bern University of Applied Sciences could close this gap and test innovative teaching models. Central content would be systemic approaches that combine ecological, social and spatial factors and translate them into sustainable concepts.

    The green space between buildings is not superfluous. It is the ecological capital of the future. Those who see it as an integral part of urban planning will create resilient, liveable cities that can withstand the challenges of climate and biodiversity.

  • Flash GDP shows only minimal growth

    Flash GDP shows only minimal growth

    After a solid start to the year with growth of 0.8%, the momentum of the Swiss economy slowed significantly in spring 2025. According to the flash estimate published by Seco on Friday, GDP rose by just 0.1% in the second quarter. This confirms the impression of a cooling economy, which is in line with expectations but well below the start of the year.

    Industry weakens
    The main reason for the meagre growth was a negative development in industry, which was characterized by falling demand and global uncertainty. By contrast, the service sector proved to be a stabilizing factor. It was able to partially compensate for the declines in industry and thus prevented zero growth. Consumer-related services and the finance and insurance sector in particular performed robustly.

    Pharmaceutical exports fueled the first quarter
    The clear contrast to the start of the year illustrates the volatility of the Swiss economy. An extraordinary special effect boosted the economy in the first quarter. The uncertainties surrounding possible US tariffs led to exports, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, being brought forward to the USA before new regulations came into force. This pull-forward effect contributed significantly to the 0.8% increase at the time, but has now disappeared.

    Disagreement among economists
    The current trend is in line with forecasts, but experts’ assessments differed widely in advance. The economists surveyed by the news agency AWP ranged from a slight decline of 0.3% to growth of 0.3%. The increase of 0.1% now reported is therefore exactly in the middle of expectations.

    Methodology and outlook
    The published figures are based on a quick estimate (“flash GDP”), which is published around 45 days after the end of the quarter. Seco combines early production data with forecasts in order to provide an initial indication of the economic trend. As incomplete basic data is still used, the values may change in the regular publication. The official estimate, including detailed analyses on the production, use and income side, will be published on August 28, 2025.

    A comprehensive revision of the national accounts is also due later in the year. The revised GDP data from 1980 to the second quarter of 2025 will be published on September 29, 2025.

    The Swiss economy is virtually treading water in spring 2025. While industry continues to struggle with difficult conditions, the robust service sector is preventing a slide into stagnation. The coming months will show whether the economy will stabilize or whether further braking effects will dampen development. International trade relations, the development of interest rates and global demand will remain decisive factors.

  • Builders’ association welcomes EU negotiating mandate

    Builders’ association welcomes EU negotiating mandate

    The construction industry is highly dependent on stable political and economic conditions. The Swiss Federation of Master Builders therefore emphasizes the importance of the adopted negotiating mandate with the European Union. Orderly relations with the EU are a basic prerequisite for Switzerland as a business location, the association emphasizes. At the same time, it makes it clear that wage protection is not an obstacle in the upcoming negotiations.

    ISAB as a digital core instrument
    The Information System Alliance Construction (ISAB) has been in use since 2019. A digital enforcement tool that ensures wage protection throughout the construction industry. The system combines three central components such as the ISAB portal, the joint CLA certificate and the ISAB Card.

    ISAB is used to digitally check and monitor compliance with generally binding collective employment agreements. According to the SBC, the joint inspection alone carries out around 16,000 construction site inspections with ISAB every year. More than in almost any other sector. This means that wage and employee protection in the construction industry is particularly tightly meshed.

    Clear stance towards trade unions
    The SBC rejects the expansion of accompanying measures, as demanded by the trade unions. The current Posted Workers Act already offers a tried and tested instrument that prevents abusive undercutting of wage and working conditions. As this law is in line with the European Posting of Workers Directive, the association does not expect any resistance from the EU.

    Responsibility of building owners
    The SBC emphasizes that building owners, especially large public clients, bear a central responsibility. By consistently relying on the use of digital tools such as ISAB, they make a decisive contribution to combating undeclared work and ensuring fair working conditions. This sends out an important signal, especially in the current European political context.

    Expensesregulation as an open question
    While the SBC believes that wage protection is secured, the association still sees a need for clarification regarding the EU expenses regulation. The association is calling for an expenses regulation based on the place of performance principle, i.e. according to Swiss standards. This is the only way to prevent foreign companies from gaining an unjustified competitive advantage over Swiss providers through lower expense rates.

    The SBC sees the adopted negotiating mandate as an opportunity to put relations between Switzerland and the EU on a stable footing. With the digital enforcement instrument ISAB, wage protection is guaranteed. A further expansion of the accompanying measures is not necessary. It is now crucial that clients assume their responsibility and implement digital solutions across the board. The association is calling for a clear solution in favor of fair competition when it comes to expense regulations.

  • Switzerland needs faster approval procedures

    Switzerland needs faster approval procedures

    The housing shortage in Switzerland continues to worsen. Although construction activity has increased slightly compared to previous years, the pace is not sufficient to meet the rising demand. Forecasts show that only 42,000 new apartments will be built in 2025, around 20 percent less than would be necessary to ensure a stable supply. In view of strong immigration, growing domestic demand and low vacancy rates in urban regions, this will lead to noticeably rising rents and growing pressure on the housing market.

    BWO study reveals problems
    On July 1, 2025, the Federal Office for Housing published a comprehensive study on the causes of long planning and approval procedures and the increasing number of objections. The results clearly show that the procedures are often too complex, too lengthy and prone to delays due to objections, which are not always in the public interest. At the same time, the study also shows that there are ways to speed up procedures without undermining environmental or monument protection. It thus confirms what the SBC has been emphasizing for years: the bottlenecks in residential construction cannot be resolved without legal adjustments.

    SBCcalls for decisive action
    The SBC sees the results of the BWO study as a clear mandate for politicians. Now is the time to tackle reforms consistently and thus trigger investment. Developers and investors need planning and legal certainty in order to implement projects and bring urgently needed living space onto the market. “Time is of the essence. We must act now to stem the housing shortage,” says the association.

    Specifically, the SBC is advocating the following measures

    1. Faster planning and approval procedures
    Acceleration and streamlining of processes at cantonal and municipal level.
    Restriction of objections to vested interests worthy of protection.
    Curbing abusive objections, for example through procedural costs or liability for damages in the event of delays.

    2. Adapted spatial planning principles
    Increasing the utilization figures, for example by adding additional storeys.
    Reduction of boundary distances in order to use existing areas more efficiently.
    Creation of additional mixed zones for living and working in order to promote lively neighborhoods.

    3. Fair balancing of interests between residential construction and monument protection
    Balanced weighting of housing requirements and protection interests.
    Direct application of ISOS (inventory of Swiss sites worthy of protection) only in federal procedures directly related to the protection of the townscape.
    Early clarification of the trade-off between monument protection and densification in the structure plan and in building and zoning regulations.

    Political support available
    There are various initiatives in the national parliament that address precisely these points. They enjoy broad support across party lines. The SBC therefore calls for this work to be quickly translated into concrete legislative changes. This is the only way to simplify procedures, eliminate legal uncertainties and resolve blockages.

    Housing construction as a task for society as a whole
    The creation of sufficient living space is not just a task for the construction industry, but a challenge for society as a whole. Cities and municipalities need reliable instruments to meet demand without losing valuable time in lengthy procedures. At the same time, it is important to maintain a balance between high-density construction, ecological requirements and the protection of local landscapes.

    The BWO study gets to the heart of the matter. Switzerland needs structural reforms so that living space can be created more quickly again. The SBC welcomes the clear findings and calls for politicians and the administration to take responsibility now. Without reforms, the housing shortage threatens to increase further in the coming years, with all the negative consequences for tenants, families and the competitiveness of Switzerland as a business location.

  • Nuclear waste as a resource for the energy transition

    Nuclear waste as a resource for the energy transition

    Nuclear power polarizes! While some countries are phasing it out, elsewhere it remains a central pillar of the energy supply. However, they all have one problem in common – radioactive waste. Thousands of tons of highly radioactive materials are already stored around the world and their safe storage costs billions. Now, however, an idea is coming to the fore that could turn this waste into a valuable raw material.

    Tritium is the key to nuclear fusion
    Nuclear fusion is seen as the beacon of hope for the future of energy. In contrast to nuclear fission, it does not rely on decay, but on the fusion of atomic nuclei. Similar to the sun. Using deuterium and tritium as fuel, huge amounts of energy can be generated with virtually no climate-damaging emissions and significantly less waste. While deuterium is readily available, tritium remains extremely scarce. Only around 25 kilograms currently exist worldwide, too little for widespread use in energy production.

    Nuclear waste as a source for the fuel of the future
    This is where Terence Tarnowsky’s research at Los Alamos National Laboratory comes in. Radioactive waste from existing nuclear power plants could be used to produce relevant quantities of tritium. This would address two challenges at the same time. The safe and expensive storage of nuclear waste and the availability of the missing fuel for future fusion power plants. The market price for tritium is currently around 15 million dollars per pound, a clear indication of its scarcity and value.

    Opportunities for the energy transition
    The vision is clear. If waste becomes a fuel of the future, the cards in global energy policy could be reshuffled. Fusion power plants fueled by tritium from recycled nuclear waste could provide enormous amounts of energy in a climate-neutral and safe way. This would be a milestone for the energy transition, which could secure the growing demand for electricity from electromobility, the heating transition and digitalization in the long term.

    Research at the turning point
    The path to large-scale use is still open. Technical, economic and security policy issues need to be clarified. However, the direction shows how science and technology can transform seemingly contaminated sites into opportunities for the future. Nuclear waste, of all things, a symbol of unresolved energy problems, could thus become a mainstay of the energy transition.

  • Heat protection on construction sites becomes a joint task

    Heat protection on construction sites becomes a joint task

    Switzerland is topographically diverse, from inner-city construction sites to alpine locations and large-scale infrastructure projects. Standardized measures therefore fall short. While earlier working hours are made possible in certain municipalities, other projects rely on mobile shading systems or adapted break regulations. The decisive factor is the adaptation to the respective region, the environment and the project type.

    Shared responsibility of the building owner
    Walz emphasizes that it is not only the task of construction companies to provide heat protection. Building owners and project authors can also implement effective measures through forward-looking planning and tendering. In doing so, they take responsibility for occupational safety and prevent discussions about additional costs. “If you address the issue at an early stage, you create clarity and commitment for everyone involved,” says Walz.

    Cooperation at all levels
    Close coordination between site management, foremen and employees is a key factor. Although employers have a legal duty to ensure health and safety, employees also have a role to play. They must actively use protective measures, seek out shady areas and use the aids provided. The Ordinance on Accident Prevention (VUV, Art. 11) obliges all parties to implement these measures.

    Legal framework and challenges
    Employers are already legally obliged to implement protective measures. Support is provided by Suva and SBV guidelines. Nevertheless, there are structural problems. If the work rhythm is adjusted due to a heatwave, delays occur that are not always covered by work contracts. The provisions of SIA standard 118, which provide for deadline extensions in the event of weather-related interruptions, are often waived. As a result, the risks end up with the construction companies and their employees. A practice that the SBC clearly criticizes.

    Round table sends out signals
    In order to develop viable solutions, the SBC joined forces with trade unions, client representatives such as KBOB, SBB, Astra and IPB as well as authorities and Suva at the “Heat Round Table”. In mid-May 2025, a consultative decision was taken to enshrine heat protection in the Construction Site Ordinance (BauAV), in KBOB and IPB recommendations and in the SIA 118 contract standard. This means that building owners and social partners are committed to taking health protection into account on a binding basis. It is now up to politicians to send a clear signal in the same direction.

    Heat protection on construction sites is not just a matter for the boss; it requires the shared responsibility of all those involved, from the client, companies, site managers and employees. Only if everyone pulls together can the growing risks posed by rising temperatures be managed effectively. In times of climate change, heat protection is thus becoming an integral part of modern building culture and a decisive factor for occupational safety and fair framework conditions.

  • Microfactories with AI are changing housing construction

    Microfactories with AI are changing housing construction

    The recent wildfires in Southern California have devastated thousands of hectares of land and destroyed over 16,000 buildings. This is exactly where Cosmic’s microfactory in Pacific Palisades comes in. It produces modular wall panels with millimeter precision, which are delivered and assembled directly to the construction site. This reduces the construction time by up to 70 percent. By 2027, 100 new houses are to be built that are fireproof, energy-efficient and self-sufficient in terms of water supply.

    Technology as a driver of construction
    The core of the solution is the combination of ABB’s IRB 6710 industrial robot, the RobotStudio® digital twin software and Cosmic’s AI-supported Building Information Model (BIM). This allows construction processes to be fully digitally simulated, optimized and monitored in real time. Computer vision systems continuously analyze production, detect errors and ensure consistent quality. By integrating robotics, automation and AI, the entire process, from approvals to production and assembly, is bundled into one end-to-end platform.

    Sustainability and cost reduction
    The benefits are not just speed and precision. Houses from the microfactory are fireproof, equipped with solar panels and battery storage and are self-sufficient in water thanks to recycling systems. The price is between 550 and 700 dollars per square meter, well below the usual costs in Los Angeles of 800 to 1,000 dollars. At the same time, material waste is decreasing while construction quality is increasing. For many homeowners who struggle with underinsurance and high reconstruction costs after disasters, this means real relief.

    Growth potential in the construction industry
    Experts predict that the global market for construction robots will grow by 20 percent annually until 2030. The cooperation between ABB and Cosmic demonstrates how this dynamic can be implemented in an automated, local, sustainable and cost-efficient manner. This not only opens up a new path for disaster relief, but also a model for future residential construction worldwide.

  • Digital partnership for greater efficiency in the construction process

    Digital partnership for greater efficiency in the construction process

    Smartconext AG, which develops web-based and fully integrated solutions for digital order acquisition in the construction industry, will be working with LUUCY AG in future. Smartconext offers web-based and fully integrated solutions for digital order acquisition in the construction industry, while LUUCY operates a platform with a digital replica of Switzerland. LUUCY users will benefit from the collaboration through integrated access to up-to-date construction project information.

    The aim of the partnership, which according to a press release is to make construction industry information available at an earlier stage, clarify correlations and better inform decisions, is to create greater efficiency, transparency and speed in the construction process. “Our vision is to make construction information available where it creates real added value – early, precise and integrated into existing processes,” Dominik Mahn, founder and CEO of smartconext, is quoted as saying in the press release. “In LUUCY, we have found a partner who, like us, stands for innovation and digital excellence in the construction industry.”

    The platform of LUUCY AG, which has offices in Kriens LU and Münchenstein BL in addition to its headquarters in Schlieren, combines georeferenced planning data with analysis tools for feasibility studies, potential assessments and development strategies. This provides players in the construction industry with intuitive 3D visualisation and data-based site development in real time.