immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Tag: Infrastruktur

  • New indoor swimming pool for theKSS approved

    New indoor swimming pool for theKSS approved

    The decision of the Schaffhausen electorate paves the way for the construction of a new, modern indoor swimming pool on the KSS site. With an investment volume of CHF 80 million, this project represents an important milestone in the further development of the city’s infrastructure. The new building is not only a response to the ageing existing facility, but also a commitment to sustainable and future-oriented urban development.

    The new building will replace the existing indoor swimming pool from 1972, which is no longer up to modern-day standards due to its poor condition and outdated technology. The last refurbishment measures were carried out more than 30 years ago and the facility suffers from serious deficiencies such as water and heat losses, a lack of accessibility and outdated safety equipment. In addition, the current indoor pool can no longer cope with the increasing number of visitors, which leads to considerable conflicts of use.

    An indoor pool for all generations
    The planned new building will not only exceed the previous standard, but will also set new benchmarks. With a swimming pool comprising eight lanes of 25 metres each, as well as a teaching pool, a course pool with a lifting floor, a separate diving pool and a children’s paddling area, the range of facilities will be significantly expanded. There will also be an outdoor warm water pool and a state-of-the-art wellness centre with various saunas, a steam bath and a sauna garden. This facility will not only meet the sporting needs, but also the increasing demands of the population for wellness and relaxation.

    A central element of the new concept is the separation of the pools according to their main uses in order to avoid the current conflicts of use. The new structure makes it possible to use the various facilities simultaneously and without restrictions. The central entrance to the new building will ensure efficient access to all facilities and optimise operations.

    Sustainability as a guiding principle
    The new indoor swimming pool will be built to the “Minergie-P-ECO Standard”, one of the highest standards for energy-efficient and sustainable construction in Switzerland. The project’s energy concept provides for the extensive use of waste heat, in particular from the neighbouring ice rink, as well as a connection to a local heating network. These measures will help to significantly reduce the ecological footprint of the new building and position Schaffhausen as a pioneer in sustainable construction.

    New synergies and sources of income
    The new indoor pool will not only offer sports and health facilities, but will also be of economic importance. A publicly accessible restaurant with 130 indoor and 150 outdoor seats will generate additional income and establish the KSS facility as a meeting place for the entire population. In addition, an underground car park with 150 parking spaces will improve accessibility.
    Additional rental space for health and fitness facilities will round off the concept and contribute to the attractiveness and profitability of the overall project. These synergies between the various uses will strengthen the KSS site as a central focal point for sport, leisure and recreation in Schaffhausen.

    Competition and project management
    Following the approval of the population, the project competition will now begin with the aim of finding an innovative design for the new building that fulfils the high standards of architecture, functionality and sustainability. Twelve qualified teams will develop their proposals by summer 2025 and the winning project will be presented to the public. Construction is scheduled to start in 2027, with the new indoor pool opening in 2029/2030.

    The construction of the new indoor pool in Schaffhausen is more than just a building project – it is a strong signal of the city’s future viability and innovative strength. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, sustainable construction and an expanded range of facilities, the new indoor pool will make the KSS complex an even more attractive and contemporary leisure centre.

  • Milestone for the second stage of the innovation park

    Milestone for the second stage of the innovation park

    The Zurich Innovation Park combines research, development and aviation utilisation in a unique way. An area for the innovation park and for a research, test and industrial airfield will be created in the south-western part of the Dübendorf airfield. This vision includes not only modern infrastructure, but also publicly accessible green and open spaces. The project is of central importance for the region, the canton of Zurich and Switzerland as a whole.

    Design plan as the basis for sustainable development
    The newly established design plan for sub-area B creates a binding framework. It regulates the utilisation, the location of the building areas as well as design, ecological and traffic requirements. At the same time, the impact on the regional transport network is analysed in depth and green spaces are optimally integrated.

    Progress through participation and planning security
    Following a public consultation phase and the consideration of objections received, the design plan was revised and approved. It will come into force on 22 November 2024 and form the basis for future construction projects. This marks another important step towards the realisation of the Zurich Innovation Park.

  • Partial covering of the A2 in Lucerne South

    Partial covering of the A2 in Lucerne South

    On 16 November 2024, the Federal Roads Office, the Canton of Lucerne, LuzernPlus and the City of Kriens offered a platform at the Schappe Kulturquadrat in Kriens to present the interim status of the partial overlays of the A2. Visitors were able to talk directly to the planning teams, make suggestions and ask questions.

    The planning, which entered its second phase in 2024, aims to sharpen the objectives, prepare the legal basis and clarify financing and technical requirements. The results of the ongoing studies are expected at the end of 2025.

    Areas with potential
    The test planning from 2023 identified three possible locations for partial covers. The designs aim to connect urban areas, improve the quality of life by reducing noise and create new urban spaces.

    • Grosshof/Luzernerstrasse: Focus on a close-knit network of paths and the upgrading of public spaces.
    • Arsenal/Schlund: Potential for LuzernSüd through the overlaps and the development of new utilisation options.
    • Schlund/Horwerstrasse: Opportunities for neighbourhood development and a gentle transformation of the Wyssmatt commercial district through the extension of the Schlund tunnel.

    Technical challenges
    In addition to the in-depth studies, a feasibility study is analysing the technical framework conditions of the planned partial overpasses. These are independent of the overall Lucerne bypass system, but will be closely coordinated with other projects in the region.

    Prospects and next steps
    The partial overpasses of the A2 offer the opportunity to redesign urban spaces and create synergies between transport and neighbourhood development. The results of the studies will provide a sound basis for further planning and implementation that takes into account the interests of the population and the institutions involved.

    The partial covering of the A2 motorway in Lucerne South shows how infrastructure projects can contribute to urban development and quality of life. The dialogue with the population and the intensive planning set the framework for a sustainable and future-oriented design of the Lucerne South region.

  • The Kammgarn area in the south

    The Kammgarn area in the south

    As part of a comprehensive vision for the city of Schaffhausen, the Kammgarnareal is to be further developed with new access points and better connections to the urban fabric. In addition to the existing access points from Baumgartenstrasse, Rheinuferstrasse and Rheinstrasse, a new passageway will be created along Klosterstrasse to improve accessibility. This will integrate the site even more closely into the urban infrastructure and enable new utilisation options.

    The Kammgarn area will become part of a “string of pearls” of meeting places along the banks of the Rhine, which will play an important role in the further upgrading of this area. With the start of construction in September, the approximately two-year construction phase will begin, with which Schaffhausen will gain a modern, attractive district that will significantly improve the urban quality of life as a meeting place and cultural centre.

    Upgrading the areas and increasing the quality of stay
    The areas are also to be upgraded as part of the planned redesign. The creation of spacious green areas, seating and a water feature in the inner courtyard of the former worsted spinning mill will increase the quality of stay. These measures aim to transform the Kammgarnhof into an attractive place to meet and relax, which can be used for events and everyday activities.

    New uses and modern infrastructure
    A central element of the redesign is the construction of a single-storey underground car park with around 90 parking spaces, which is to be built under the Kammgarnhof. This will make the inner courtyard car-free and provide more space for events and recreation. A pergola is planned in front of the west wing, while a large terrace will be created in front of the north wing.

    The historic west wing of the Kammgarn site will be prepared for new uses as part of the refurbishment. The ground floor, along a new passageway to the inner courtyard, will house the library and the toy library. The glazed façades will give passers-by an attractive insight into the world of books and games.

    Half of the first floor will be used by the library, while the remaining space will be rented out in small to medium-sized units. The Schaffhausen University of Teacher Education will move into the upper floors, while the remaining space will be available for flexible use by other tenants.

    This comprehensive remodelling of the Kammgarn site strengthens the connection to the old town and the Rhine and gives the area a new significance in the urban fabric. The planned measures will contribute to long-term urban development and create a modern, vibrant neighbourhood that will significantly improve the quality of life in Schaffhausen.

  • Suissetec opens new building on the education campus in Lostorf

    Suissetec opens new building on the education campus in Lostorf

    The Swiss-Liechtenstein Building Technology Association suissetec is expanding and modernising its training and further education centre in Lostorf, according to a press release. By the beginning of 2025, a building with workshops, laboratories, training rooms and meeting areas is to be built on around 1,800 square metres. The new building will be presented to the public at an open day on 16 November 2024.

    The infrastructure offers new opportunities for the quality of training and further education in construction professions, according to the statement. Students can learn in a concrete shell at an outdoor workstation just like on a real construction site. Interdisciplinary workshops for plumbers and heating engineers as well as the integration of construction data modelling into the didactic concept would serve as a role model. Müller Wüst AG, which belongs to Debrunner Acifer, has created a digital fabrication model for construction, which is also intended for use in teaching.

    Digital tools allow for flexible, hybrid forms of learning. “Learners will work with real materials, but also practise digitally with virtual reality glasses,” says suissetec Director Christoph Schaer.

    The new two-storey building is the first part of an expansion comprising several buildings. From 2026, the other existing buildings will be renovated in three stages. Suissetec operates the campus as one of three training centres as a “meeting place as well as a place for training and further education” for the construction industry.

    The campus was certified as the country’s first Minergie site in 2023. This means that it fulfils strict energy criteria. The aim is to maximise self-sufficiency with renewable energy, which is generated on the site itself all year round.

  • Innovative solutions for the tunnel renovation of the Bad Zurzach northern bypass

    Innovative solutions for the tunnel renovation of the Bad Zurzach northern bypass

    Last year, ERNE completed the Bad Zurzach eastern bypass. Work is now underway on the tunnel renovation of the northern bypass, the Laufenburg-based construction company announced in a press release. ERNE is using innovative solutions for this project.

    The press release cites cable and siphon shafts as well as cable shaft covers as examples. The former are not made from polymer concrete, as is usually the case, but from more robust ultra-high performance fibre concrete. The covers are made of composite material (composite). It is lighter and more corrosion-resistant than conventional cast iron.

    The project includes the renewal of the verges with cable conduit system and extinguishing water pipes and a new tunnel coating. Two existing emergency exits will be rebuilt and supplemented with new emergency exits. In addition, the tunnel control centre will be rebuilt and two new stacking basins built. The project poses challenges due to the limited space available and the fact that work has to be carried out while the tunnel is in operation.

    ERNE expects to have completed the ongoing work on the south side of the tunnel by mid-August. Following this, the half-sided traffic routing will be changed so that the north side of the tunnel can be renovated. The construction work is scheduled for completion in 2025.

  • New localisation solutions improve safety in civil engineering

    New localisation solutions improve safety in civil engineering

    Leica Geosystems, the precision equipment manufacturer based in the St.GallenBodenseeArea, has presented new localisation solutions for the civil engineering sector. According to a press release, employees of civil engineering companies will be able to use the new devices to better locate existing infrastructure supply lines and thus prevent accidents. This new solution from Leica Geosystems consists of the Leica DD300 CONNECT intelligent locating device and the Leica DA300 signalling device. The user-friendly solution enables professionals to carry out accurate, reliable and in-depth underground surveys and gain on-site insights into the underground network, according to the press release. The devices offer a frequency bandwidth for object detection in the spectrum from 33 to 131 kilohertz. The frequency of 83 kilohertz is particularly suitable for detecting objects at greater distances. The system can be integrated into the Leica DX Shield software.

    “Our product range extends from simple entry-level devices to sophisticated, fully equipped high-end locating devices,” said Federico Bertolucci, Product Manager for Locating Systems in the Geosystems division at Leica parent company Hexagon, in the press release. “The new Leica DD300 is characterised by unrivalled versatility, enabling a wide range of users to safely locate and bypass underground utilities. This adaptability significantly increases both productivity and safety at different levels of user expertise.”

  • Overall transport concept for the Zurzibiet region adopted

    Overall transport concept for the Zurzibiet region adopted

    The concept aims to ensure a reliable overall transport system and guarantee the accessibility of settlements and businesses. In addition, transport links to neighbouring areas such as Baden and the surrounding area, Brugg-Windisch and the Hochrhein region in southern Germany are to be ensured. Furthermore, traffic routing to main axes and areas outside the settlement area is planned in order to reduce emissions such as noise and air pollutants and to minimise the separating effect of transport infrastructure.

    Strategic thrusts and approaches to measures
    Strategic thrusts and approaches to measures were discussed in three fields of action.

    In the area of mobility management, settlement development should be concentrated in central locations that are well served by public transport. The promotion of combined mobility is a further objective, as is the upgrading of street spaces in urban centres to increase the quality of life as well as pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Car park management also plays an important role in this field of action.

    Comprehensive traffic management is aimed at ensuring reliable journey times and accessibility. This includes stabilising the public transport timetable as well as measures to calm traffic and increase road safety. The organisation of freight transport and logistics is also a central element of traffic management.

    Transport services are to be significantly improved by expanding public transport services, including cross-border bus connections. There are also plans to expand the cycling infrastructure, both within towns and between municipalities and across borders on corridors with great potential. The optimisation of road infrastructure and the design of railway stations as transport hubs are further important measures, as is the replacement of the Rhine crossing.

    Next steps and expected results
    In the first phase of the GVK Zurzigebiet area, comprehensive transport planning will be carried out, taking into account all modes of transport and the predicted settlement development. The results of this phase are expected by the end of 2024. Specific measures for all modes of transport will then be further developed in the second phase.

    The steering committee of the GVK Zurzibiet region comprises representatives of the Canton of Aargau, the Regional Council of Freiburg, German Customs, the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security, the Zurzibiet Regio regional planning association, the Hochrhein-Bodensee regional association, the district of Waldshut, the town of Waldshut-Tiengen and the municipalities of Koblenz, Full-Reuenthal and Leuggern. The GVK support group consists of representatives from numerous municipalities on both sides of the border, including Böttstein, Döttingen, Ehrendingen, Waldshut-Tiengen and Dogern.

  • Cross-border commuter boom in Geneva – growth and housing shortage

    Cross-border commuter boom in Geneva – growth and housing shortage

    The canton of Geneva is experiencing a sustained increase in the number of cross-border commuters who live in France and commute to work in Geneva. Between the first quarter of 2021 and the first quarter of 2024, the number of these cross-border commuters rose by 33,000 to a total of 399,000. This development was boosted by the Léman Express and the liberalisation of home office rules in 2023.

    Rising share of cross-border commuters in the labour market
    The number of cross-border commuters from France working in the Lake Geneva region has risen by 26% in the last three years. The share of cross-border commuters in the workforce rose from 13.2 percent in the first quarter of 2021 to 14.9 percent in the first quarter of 2024. This is due to the booming labour market, the housing shortage in Geneva and the more attractive housing costs in neighbouring France.

    Impact of the Léman Express
    The Léman Express, which opened in 2020, has made cross-border commuting much easier by reducing the journey time between Annemasse and Geneva’s main railway station by around 40 per cent. 70,000 commuters now use the Léman Express every day, giving it a market share of 43 per cent. This has led to a construction boom around the new railway stations and increased the attractiveness of cross-border commuting.

    Housing market in Geneva and neighbouring regions
    Geneva has been struggling with an acute housing shortage for years. The vacancy rate was just 0.4 per cent in 2023, while the supply rate of rental flats fell from 5.3 per cent to 4.2 per cent between 2021 and 2023. In comparison, housing costs are significantly lower in France, which encourages many workers to live there. However, this has also caused prices to rise in these areas.

    Future developments and challenges
    The population growth trend in the French part of the Geneva metropolitan area is expected to continue. From 2024 to 2030, annual population growth of 1 per cent is expected in the canton of Geneva, while the neighbouring French arrondissements are likely to exceed this figure. This will continue to pose challenges for infrastructure and the housing market on both sides of the border.

    The Lake Geneva region faces the challenge of reconciling the dynamic labour market and the increasing number of cross-border commuters with the existing housing shortage. Innovative transport solutions such as the Léman Express and the liberalisation of home office regulations play a key role, but also require long-term strategies to tackle the housing market problem and ensure the sustainable development of the entire region.

  • Circle at Zurich Airport has four new tenants

    Circle at Zurich Airport has four new tenants

    Four new tenants have joined the ground floor of the Circle business and service centre at Zurich Airport. From mid-2025, the newly founded Novu Campus AG will offer coworking space for up-and-coming national and international companies on an area of almost 4,000 square metres. According to a press release from Flughafen Zürich AG, it also includes state-of-the-art infrastructure for meeting and workshop formats.

    The airport itself recently moved into the Circle with its new ZRH Innovation Hub department, which was set up last autumn. It will also collaborate with universities and industry partners for the purpose of innovation for passengers and airport partners. It is headed by Coralie Klaus Boecker, who was previously Head of Marketing & Digital at the company.

    SAP has been based in the Circle since 2021. Europe’s largest provider of business software intends to establish Switzerland’s first SAP Experience Centre there. The company wants to bring its innovative strength to life for customers and partners.

    From summer 2025, Lucerne-based confectioner Bachmann will open a specialist shop with an integrated bakery and chocolaterie on the main Circle square. In the summer months, there will also be a gelateria and seating on the terrace.

    “We are very pleased about the four new tenants on the alley level, who are an excellent fit for the Circle,” Circle boss Stefan Feldmann is quoted as saying. A total of 50 companies with more than 5,000 employees are now based in the Circle. 90 per cent of the space has been let.

  • Sunrise takes over cable network around Lausanne

    Sunrise takes over cable network around Lausanne

    The city council of Lausanne has decided to transfer the cable network of ten neighbouring municipalities to Sunrise. It wants its Services industriels de Lausanne(SiL) to focus its multimedia activities on the city area in future. With this strategic decision, the city wants to offer its citizens a more diverse range of services, dismantle the historic cable network and continue the development of its FTTH fibre optic network, according to a press release.

    This step should help to ensure that customers outside of Lausanne are not penalised. Sunrise, the largest private telecommunications provider in Switzerland, convinced the city in a comprehensive evaluation process with its technical and operational expertise as well as its attractive offers for businesses and private individuals.

    By taking over the cable network, Sunrise is acquiring an important digital infrastructure in the Lake Geneva region. It covers the municipalities of Prilly, Le-Mont-sur-Lausanne, Epalinges, Jouxtens-Mézery, Bottens, Morrens, Bretigny-sur-Morrens, Cugy, Froideville and Savigny. The transition is to take place gradually from May 2024 until around the end of the year.

    “By taking over SiL’s cable network for the surrounding Lausanne region and providing our services directly to the more than 17,000 connected households, we are ensuring the continuous supply of innovative services of the highest quality to our customers,” Sunrise CEO André Krause is quoted as saying. “We will also modernise the cable network and make it future-proof for both residential and business customers.”

  • CANCOM Switzerland equips Grand Resort Bad Ragaz with new IT system

    CANCOM Switzerland equips Grand Resort Bad Ragaz with new IT system

    The IT services and trading company CANCOM Switzerland has installed the latest WiFi6 network infrastructure from Huawei at the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz. According to a press release from CANCOM, the old network of the 5-star hotel, which covers over 400,000 square metres, was replaced during ongoing operations with 80 switches, 500 access points, two physical firewalls from Palo Alto Networks and five virtual instances. In addition, two high-performance WLAN controllers and four highly functional management servers were implemented.

    The introduction of WiFi6 technology enables fast Internet and smooth communication across the entire site with its various buildings. According to CANCOM, the Grand Resort can also make its guests’ stay even more pleasant, for example with checkout terminals.

    The new network also reportedly gives the hotel’s IT team significantly greater flexibility and autonomy: “When guests brought their own IT equipment or needed their own separate network, it was always a major challenge,” says Reto Schwengeler, Head of Infrastructure and Security at the hotel. “With the old network environment, such adjustments involved a lot of effort and we were reliant on external support.” Now the in-house team benefits from a clearly organised iMaster management solution.

    Thanks to the “excellent collaboration” with CANCOM Switzerland, the project was successfully completed within a very short time. “In the past,” says Schwengeler, “we used to receive complaints almost every week. Today I hear nothing more.”

  • 3D thermography Increasing the efficiency of urban construction planning

    3D thermography Increasing the efficiency of urban construction planning

    Night-time thermographic flights are used to analyse the entire urban area from the air in order to create a 3D thermal imaging model of the urban infrastructure. This model is intended to provide valuable insights into the energy efficiency of the buildings and provide property owners with exclusive data about their buildings. The aim is to precisely determine the need for refurbishment by recognising insulation weaknesses.

    The flights are part of the CATCH4D research project, which focusses on climate adaptation through thermography and heat mapping. This research initiative, led by the Institute for Regional and Urban Development Research in cooperation with the City of Dortmund, uses aerial thermography to assess the condition of urban building insulation and identify acute renovation needs.

    The images not only provide a basis for effective climate protection measures, but also open up the possibility of extensive applications. The spectrum of possible uses ranges from monitoring forest fires to estimating the yield of solar installations. Data protection is a top priority: Personal data cannot be captured due to the image resolution.

    The project, financially supported by Google.org, demonstrates the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for urban development and climate protection. The combined 3D thermographic aerial images, which were developed in collaboration with Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, enable a new dimension of data collection and analysis for the property sector and urban planning.

  • Interim solution for Kleinhüningen primary school during the renovation phase

    Interim solution for Kleinhüningen primary school during the renovation phase

    As part of its commitment to a modern and safe educational infrastructure, the Kleinhüningen primary school is undergoing a fundamental refurbishment. The necessary construction work includes the modernisation of the building services, fire protection measures, seismic retrofitting and the renovation of the facades and interiors. In order to maintain school operations for the duration of the renovation work, the school is temporarily relocating to a suitable plot on the Klybeck site.

    After a comprehensive review of various options and taking into account feedback from the community, the canton decided in favour of the plot at Altrheinweg 3. In addition to the required proximity to the existing school, the selected plot offers good accessibility and a safe environment for pupils. The temporary school buildings that will be erected on the site will create an attractive learning environment without encroaching on existing green spaces.

    Parents and neighbours were informed in detail about the planned measures and the temporary site at an information event. The renovation work is scheduled for summer 2025 and should be completed by summer 2027. During this time, Kleinhüningen primary school will move into its temporary building on Altrheinweg, which not only impresses with its traffic-calmed location, but also with its neighbouring tree-lined playground.

    This project not only represents a solution to the current challenge, but is also an example of the adaptability and innovative spirit in the field of educational infrastructure. It demonstrates how thoughtful planning and community involvement can create temporary educational spaces that meet the needs of students while paving the way for an improved permanent school environment.

  • From industrial site to ecological tourism magnet

    From industrial site to ecological tourism magnet

    An innovative spirit characterises the project on the Isen, where the vision of a harmonious combination of tourism development and ecological enhancement is taking shape. Since the first presentation of the project by Isen AG in April 2022, key aspects such as the revitalisation of the Isentalerbach stream and its delta and the redesign of the lakeshore have been integrated into the planning based on feedback from the local population and expert advice. The relocation of the cantonal road was also incorporated into the optimised project idea.

    The latest developments, which highlight the ecological and infrastructural aspects of the project, were presented to the cantonal government and the municipal councils of Seedorf and Isenthal and were well received. The project managers are now working on the final details in order to finalise the process by mid-March 2024.

    The canton of Uri sees the project not only as a tourism benefit, but also as an opportunity to establish the region as an attractive recreational area. Significant positive effects on the local economy are expected, which is underpinned by a study commissioned by the canton on the economic potential of the project.

    The municipalities of Seedorf and Isenthal see the tourism project as an opportunity for the reorganisation of the Isleten region and are facing up to the challenges ahead in terms of traffic management, tourism impact and infrastructure requirements.

    The revised project idea will be presented to the public at the end of March 2024 as part of a comprehensive media conference and a tour of the site, followed by an online publication of the project details.

  • New construction and renovation of the Sempach training centre

    New construction and renovation of the Sempach training centre

    In view of the increasing requirements in civil defence, Lucerne feels it has a responsibility to fundamentally modernise the infrastructure of the Sempach training centre. In addition to renovating the existing buildings, the project also includes the construction of new functional facilities to meet the challenges of modern training and operational conditions. This reflects the efforts to develop the centre into a leading competence centre for civil protection in the region.

    The planned special credit is intended to finance both the structural improvements and the implementation of sustainable energy solutions. The canton is thus sending out a strong signal in favour of the future viability and sustainability of its civil protection services. The vote in March will show whether the people of Lucerne are prepared to invest in this pioneering measure, which will not only increase safety, but can also serve as a model for sustainable construction.

  • Negotiations between ewz, the municipality of Surses and the canton of Graubünden

    Negotiations between ewz, the municipality of Surses and the canton of Graubünden

    Ewz’s original concession application for the renewal of the water rights concessions for the Tinizong and Nandro power plants, which expire in May 2035, was rejected by the Surses electoral municipality on 21 January 2024. Despite this decision, ewz remains optimistic and intends to continue the constructive dialogue in order to highlight the advantages of a renewed concession.

    Philippe Heinzer, Head of the Energy division at ewz, emphasises ewz’s willingness to engage in solution-oriented negotiations and sees the inclusion of the concession renewal as one of the options for action in the municipality’s message as a positive sign of confidence.

    As a long-standing electricity producer in the region, ewz has extensive experience and is significantly integrated into the local economy and infrastructure. With an annual production of over 700 GWh, which corresponds to the consumption of around 280,000 four-room households, ewz plays a central role in the regional energy supply. A licence renewal would enable ewz to continue to operate the existing plants efficiently and safely and to continue to guarantee the energy supply in the region.

    In addition, ewz invests around CHF 10 million annually in the maintenance and modernisation of the power plants and the regional distribution grid and contributes to regional value creation with substantial tax and water interest payments.

    By focussing on strengthening hydropower as a renewable energy source, ewz is reaffirming its commitment to the preservation and further development of this important resource. The planned offer for a new concession to the municipality of Surses and the canton of Graubünden will show how ewz sees its role in the future energy supply of the region and how it can contribute to the sustainable development of the local community.

  • Zurich Airport has exceeded the canton’s requirements

    Zurich Airport has exceeded the canton’s requirements

    The Zurich cantonal government presented its airport report on 7 December. According to the report, Zurich Airport met the economic and transport requirements in 2022. At CHF 1,024 million, total revenue exceeded CHF 1 billion for the first time since coronavirus, an increase of 50.5 per cent. Costs rose by only 22.9 per cent to CHF 468 million. Profit amounted to 138 million francs, an increase of 149.3 per cent.

    Passenger numbers continued to recover to 23 million, with the government expecting 28 million travellers by 2023. The airport is also doing well in terms of quality: it is ranked 7th globally in terms of accessibility and 8th in terms of quality. According to the presentation by the cantonal government, the number of people affected by aircraft noise fell below the target value of 47,000 at around 43,400. The airport also remained well below 320,000 aircraft movements with 216,000 – 10,000 of which were at night.

    However, the complexity of flight operations remains high, emphasises the government council. Extending the runways, which will be put to the vote in the spring, will reduce the number of intersections in the air and on the ground. This will increase the safety margin, according to a press release on the airport report.

    The cantonal government emphasises the importance of the airport for the location. It is crucial for Switzerland’s international accessibility, an important employer and an economic driver for the canton and Switzerland as a whole.

  • Nationwide high-speed internet for Switzerland

    Nationwide high-speed internet for Switzerland

    In a significant step towards promoting digital infrastructure in Switzerland, the Federal Council has launched the Gigabit Strategy. This strategy aims to provide access to high-speed internet to all regions of the country, particularly the less developed areas. DETEC has been tasked with drawing up a consultation draft on this topic, which aims to reduce the digital divide between urban and rural areas.

    The Confederation’s gigabit strategy
    This strategy focuses on a nationwide supply of internet speeds of at least 1 gigabit per second, which significantly exceeds the current basic supply. The majority of the necessary investments will be borne by the market, but the federal government is planning to create incentives for expansion in less profitable areas through a funding programme.

    Temporary funding programme
    The seven-year funding programme is designed to support broadband expansion only in areas where demand exists and expansion is not economically viable. It is intended to supplement private investment without replacing it and to promote the expansion of fibre optic networks and modern wireless technologies in sparsely populated areas.

    Mixed financing
    With an estimated financial requirement of up to CHF 750 million for the deployment of modern wireless technologies in remote areas, the Federal Council plans to structure the programme in line with demand. Funding is to come primarily from the proceeds of future mobile radio frequency licences as well as contributions from the industry and the cantons.

    DETEC has been tasked with submitting a consultation draft by the end of 2024. This step follows the postulate “Federal high-bandwidth strategy” from the National Council’s Transport and Telecommunications Committee and builds on the Federal Council’s report of June 2023.

  • Heating network in Villmergen utilises local waste wood

    Heating network in Villmergen utilises local waste wood

    On 16 November, AEW Energie AG celebrated the start of construction of the heating centre in the Villmerg industrial area with a ground-breaking ceremony. The heating centre will be built on the Cellpack Power Systems site. According to a press release, it will initially be equipped with a boiler for waste wood with a nominal output of 2,000 kilowatts and an oil-fired boiler for peak loads with a nominal output of 4,000 kilowatts.

    The plant will supply heat for the first time at the end of 2024. It will replace around 710,000 cubic metres of natural gas and thus avoid the emission of 1500 tonnes of CO2. A further waste wood boiler with a nominal output of 4000 kilowatts is to be added in the final stage. This should also be able to supply other companies in the industrial area. The expansion of the heating network to neighbouring areas is being considered.

    Most of the waste wood will come from untreated wood waste from the industrial estate and will be supplemented with wood from the region as required. The proportion of oil for the peak load should not exceed 10 per cent. A photovoltaic system will be installed on the roof and on two sides of the heating centre. This will achieve a peak output of 260 kilowatts.

  • BKW makes the start house on the Matterhorn energy self-sufficient

    BKW makes the start house on the Matterhorn energy self-sufficient

    This year’s Ski World Cup season starts on the weekends of 11/12 and 18/19 November with cross-border races in Zermatt and Cervinia. According to a press release, BKW has erected a mobile start house on the Theodul Glacier above Zermatt that does not require an external power supply.

    The starting house measures 15 by 8 metres and is inflatable. It weighs 600 kilograms and is designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour. Power is supplied by 40 integrated solar cells with a total output of 11 kilowatts peak.

    The system was installed by companies from the Bern-based energy service provider’s network. These included BKW Engingeering for the project management, ingenhoven architects based in Düsseldorf for the building planning and enerpeak based in Dübendorf for the electrics and photovoltaics.

    BKW is an official premium and sustainability partner of the event organiser Swiss-Ski. “We are using the partnership with Swiss-Ski to bring sustainable solutions to snow sports,” said Michael Morgenthaler, Head of Brand Experience, Partnerships & Campaigns at BKW, in the press release. “At the same time, we can show the public our broad expertise in the areas of energy, buildings and infrastructure.”

  • RWB supplies first municipal property with district heating

    RWB supplies first municipal property with district heating

    According to a statement from the town, Regionalwerke AG Baden has connected a municipal property to its heating network for the first time. With the elimination of the previous gas heating system, emissions of 14 tonnes of CO2 can be avoided at Wiesenstrasse.

    The city of Baden wants to have converted all gas heating systems in its properties to district heating by 2028. The residents’ council has approved a planning credit of 750,000 Swiss francs for the first construction phase up to 2025. A second credit application is to be submitted in 2025 for the second construction phase up to 2028. RWB has evaluated 60 properties so far.

    The city anticipates an annual district heating potential of around 9400 megawatt hours and a CO2 reduction potential of 1900 tonnes in its properties. “The city wants to lead by example,” City Councillor Philippe Ramseier is quoted as saying in the press release.

    The energy for the district heating network comes from the Turgi waste incineration plant, among other sources. The proportion of CO2-neutral heat in the Baden North district heating network is over 80 per cent.

  • IWB to decommission distribution network for natural gas by 2037

    IWB to decommission distribution network for natural gas by 2037

    The canton of Basel-Stadt has decided to phase out fossil fuel heating by 2037. IWB currently supplies just under 11,000 properties in Basel, Bettingen and Riehen with natural gas. Of these, 9,000 use natural gas for heating.

    According to an IWB statement, 5800 properties can be connected to an existing or planned district heating network. For the remaining properties, alternatives must be sought. These could be heat pumps or pellet heating.

    About 2000 properties use natural gas for cooking. Therefore, about 14,000 gas cookers must be converted to electric cookers.

    IWB wants to decommission its natural gas network gradually, basically at the end of the respective service life. The first shutdowns are planned for 2026 and 2027. After that, around 1000 connections are to be taken off the grid each year.

    The canton supports the changeover to heat pumps, wood heating systems or heating networks with subsidies. For gas systems that have not yet been amortised, it also pays compensation for residual values. The canton expects to pay a maximum of 80.4 million francs for such compensation and bridging solutions.

  • SH Power wants to network Herrenacker with other heating networks

    SH Power wants to network Herrenacker with other heating networks

    The Herrenacker heating association has been supplying municipal and private properties around Herrenacker in Schaffhausen’s old town with heat from groundwater since 1993. It belonged to a simple partnership in which the canton held 56 per cent and the city 44 per cent.

    Now SH Power is taking over the heating network with retroactive effect from 1 July. According to a media release, the municipal energy supplier will pay the canton CHF 2.8 million for its share in the simple partnership.

    SH Power intends to supply the entire old town with sustainable heat in the future. The Herrenacker network has a large storage capacity and is to be networked with other heating networks in the future.

  • New school toilets to transform Sri Lanka’s construction industry

    New school toilets to transform Sri Lanka’s construction industry

    Paolo Tombesi, the director of the Laboratory of Construction and Architecture(FAR) at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne(EPFL), and visiting scientist Milinda Pathiraja have completed a groundbreaking construction project at its old high school in Kandy in central Sri Lanka: The construction of two toilet facilities is designed to demonstrate industrial development potential through architectural design. Their prototype is based on 20 years of joint research.

    With strategic planning, the design of such infrastructures “can be used as an opportunity to showcase and disseminate innovations and introduce practice-based triggers for a much-needed revitalisation of local building culture”, Pathiraja is quoted as saying in an EPFL report. It was also about “cultivating new, economically sustainable and ecologically oriented building ‘traditions’ for countries facing urbanisation pressures, limited raw materials and financial constraints”.

    For example, non-sustainable building materials that require functioning supply chains, such as glass and aluminium, or are not available in the country, such as clinker, were avoided. The two researchers also wanted to illustrate how building policy and sustainability lead to value creation at different points, for example in the case of vaulted roofs made of ferrocement.

    For all this, the industry needs concrete examples and prototypes “that show both the technical value and the economic feasibility of such ideas”, says Tombesi. These toilets simultaneously lower the total cost to $400 per square metre, including sanitation. “And given the nationwide need for this type of programme, the lessons we’ve learned will likely be picked up by others.”

  • Digital building starts in the mind

    Digital building starts in the mind

    L’edilizia digitale – soprattutto con l’aiuto del Building Information Modelling (BIM) – sta sfidando molti processi collaudati nel settore edile. La costruzione digitale avviene innanzitutto nella mente e sul computer, dove viene creato un modello virtuale del progetto.

    Sulla base di questa immagine 3D molto dettagliata del futuro edificio, si possono già prendere molte decisioni ed eliminare potenziali problemi. I sostenitori di questo nuovo tipo di costruzione, supportato digitalmente, promettono guadagni di efficienza e di qualità, una riduzione degli errori di costruzione e una logistica di costruzione molto semplificata.

    Edilizia digitale: un piano in 6 punti semplifica il ripensamento

    Tuttavia, il passaggio dall’edilizia analogica a quella digitale è tutt’altro che semplice. Il docente di BFH Adrian Wildenauer lo sa per esperienza personale. Come ingegnere civile, conosce tutti gli aspetti dell’industria edile, dall’acciaio per armature alla modellazione BIM.

    Per le FFS, ha sviluppato un piano in 6 punti per tutto il settore, che intende servire come base per ripensare le operazioni di costruzione da analogiche a digitali. A suo avviso, è fondamentale che tutti gli attori coinvolti nell’edilizia siano coinvolti e facciano progredire il settore insieme.

    Chiarire l’obiettivo e la tabella di marcia

    Nell’edilizia digitale, le basi, le tabelle di marcia, i modelli e l’immagine target sono disponibili a tutti i partecipanti fin dall’inizio. Ciò consente alle imprese di costruzione, ai fornitori, agli architetti e ai clienti di coordinarsi molto prima della cerimonia di posa del terreno e di eliminare i possibili conflitti e le fonti di errore in una fase iniziale. “Dobbiamo coinvolgere tutti i partecipanti alla catena del valore il più presto possibile”, sottolinea Adrian Wildenauer.

    Comunicare con il linguaggio

    I progetti di costruzione digitale richiedono che tutti parlino la stessa lingua. L’industria ottiene questo risultato lavorando ancora di più con standard validi. A partire dai termini rilevanti dell’edilizia digitale e del Building Information Modelling, agli standard della Società Svizzera degli Ingegneri e degli Architetti (sia) o del Centro di Competenza per gli Standard nell’Industria Edile e Immobiliare (crb), fino allo scambio con le associazioni e le società del settore: soprattutto all’inizio, è importante che tutti i soggetti coinvolti si capiscano. Il Glossario nazionale sviluppato congiuntamente, in cui i termini sono stati definiti congiuntamente, aiuta anche in questo caso.

    Comunicare con il modello di dati

    Non solo le persone coinvolte dipendono da una comunicazione funzionante, ma anche i sistemi coinvolti. Poiché un modello virtuale del progetto edilizio è centrale per l’edilizia digitale, non c’è modo di evitare lo sviluppo congiunto di un modello di dati consolidato per gli edifici. In questo modo è possibile scambiare facilmente informazioni dal progettista al capomastro. “Trattare i dati è il nostro nuovo linguaggio comune”, spiega Adrian Wildenauer, “dobbiamo impararlo”

    Riutilizzare i componenti

    Un vantaggio dell’edilizia digitale è che non si deve necessariamente reinventare la ruota – o addirittura il progetto edilizio – per ogni progetto. Dopo tutto, molti elementi di una costruzione tornano in uso con ogni progetto. Invece di progettarli, dimensionarli e testarli da zero con ogni progetto, come in precedenza, è sufficiente utilizzare oggetti edili standardizzati. Ad esempio, prima di progettare una porta, ne costruisce un’immagine digitale standardizzata. Questa contiene tutti gli attributi necessari, dalla scelta del materiale alle dimensioni del cilindro, dalle larghezze e altezze delle ante alle strisce di tenuta. Grazie agli oggetti di costruzione standardizzati, le aziende risparmiano tempo nella progettazione di tali oggetti ed evitano errori. Affinché questo funzioni, le aziende devono avere un facile accesso a una raccolta di tali componenti digitali.

    Raccogliere l’esperienza

    La conoscenza nel settore edile è spesso ancora trasmessa in modo molto tradizionale, dal maestro artigiano esperto direttamente agli apprendisti sul cantiere. Nell’edilizia digitale, questa conoscenza, che oggi non è tangibile o documentata, può essere raccolta sistematicamente in cantiere e utilizzata per la formazione. Ma anche le esperienze con l’edilizia digitale stessa possono essere registrate e gli strumenti e i processi digitali possono essere testati per la loro idoneità. Se la gestione digitale dell’edilizia porta a un migliore trasferimento delle conoscenze, il settore è sulla strada giusta, ne è convinto Adrian Wildenauer: “Solo se condividiamo le conoscenze possiamo avere successo insieme”

    Comunicare le basi dell’ordine

    Molti processi nell’edilizia digitale culminano in un ordine, che si tratti della prenotazione di un servizio o dell’acquisto di materiali. Un grande vantaggio della costruzione digitale è che i dati necessari per gli ordini vengono registrati il prima possibile nel modello virtuale del progetto. Tuttavia, affinché qualcosa accada in cantiere, tutti coloro che sono coinvolti nel progetto devono sapere come ottenere e utilizzare i dati degli ordini dal sistema. La formazione e la documentazione adeguate per i dipendenti sono quindi obbligatorie.

    In pratica, diventa chiaro che l’edilizia digitale richiede una cooperazione digitale comune. I sistemi e l’infrastruttura IT sono importanti, ma solo se gli architetti, gli ingegneri civili e le aziende partner sono disposti a lavorare insieme in tutte le aree di competenza. La costruzione digitale non inizia sullo schermo, ma nella mente degli esperti.

  • Zurich cantonal parliament approves runway extension

    Zurich cantonal parliament approves runway extension

    Flughafen Zürich AG wants to extend Runway 28 by 400 metres to the west and Runway 32 by 280 metres to the north. With this project, the airport wants to implement the conclusions of the 2012 safety review of Zurich Airport(SÜFZ) by the Federal Office of Civil Aviation. The extension of the runways is intended to increase the stability of air traffic in all weather conditions and for all types of aircraft.

    According to a press release, the Zurich Cantonal Council approved the extension on 28 August with a narrow majority of 87 to 83 votes, with two abstentions. The SVP, FDP, Mitte and EVP voted in favour of the proposal, while the other parties rejected it.

    Zurich Airport is pleased with the decision, as it writes in a statement. The longer runways would increase braking distances and reduce crossing points on the ground and in the air. More stable operations would reduce the number of delays as well as those affected by aircraft noise. “There are no alternative measures in flight operations that would bring the same improvements in terms of safety and reduction of delays,” the statement says. The number of flight movements, on the other hand, would remain the same.

    The Zurich Chamber of Commerce(ZHK) also welcomes the decision of the cantonal council. “Zurich Airport is of great economic importance for the greater Zurich area and for the entire country,” it writes in a statement. “To ensure Zurich’s international connectivity with the world in the long term, the airport must be able to adapt to changing circumstances.” ZHK Director Regine Sauter had already campaigned in advance for approval by the cantonal parliament. “The runway extensions bring multiple benefits: Residents benefit from more peace and quiet at night, and Zurich as a business location can count on a punctual airport and reliable connections to the world in the long term,” she is now quoted as saying in the ZHK release.

    The cantonal council’s decision is subject to an optional referendum, so the electorate is likely to have the final say. Only then can the airport submit an application for planning permission to the federal government.

  • Third tube of the Gubristtunnel is opened

    Third tube of the Gubristtunnel is opened

    Federal Councillor Albert Rösti opened the third tube of the Gubrist Tunnel on 3 July. “Functioning national roads relieve cities and villages of alternative traffic and enable economic growth and prosperity. The network must also be able to fulfil this task in the future,” said the Transport Minister at the opening ceremony, according to a statement from the Federal Roads Office(FEDRO). “Here we are building for the mobility of tomorrow.”

    Zurich’s Director of Economic Affairs Carmen Walker Späh stressed the importance for the economic region. “With the opening of the third Gubri tube, traffic will flow much better in the direction of Bern and Lucerne – that is good for the nerves of motorists and for our national economy,” she was quoted as saying.

    Zurich city councillor Michael Baumer pointed to the relief of traffic in Switzerland’s largest city. “It’s important that the infrastructure in and around the city can keep pace with population and economic growth, while relieving congestion in the city centre, so that efficient and sustainable mobility is possible for the whole population.”

    The president of the Weiningen municipality, Mario Okle, praised the cooperation of the administrations involved. “The exchange with the cantonal and federal authorities has noticeably improved.”

    Project planning for the third tube began in 2001. Construction of the tube started in 2016. A total of 1.55 billion Swiss francs will be invested in the construction of the new tube and the renovation of the two existing tubes. The renovation work will continue until the end of 2027. After that, the tunnel will have seven lanes.

  • Cantonal Council committee approves extension of airport runways

    Cantonal Council committee approves extension of airport runways

    The Zurich Cantonal Council ‘s Commission for Energy, Transport and the Environment is in favour of the planned extension of Runways 28 and 32 at Zurich Airport by eight votes to seven, the Zurich Cantonal Council informs in a statement. According to the eight commission members from SVP, FDP, Mitte and EVP, an extension of the two runways will only lead to the consolidation of flight operations during peak times and bad weather conditions. Among other things, the communication cites greater reliability and punctuality.

    The minority of SP, GLP and Greens, on the other hand, fears that an extension of the runways will also be used to expand capacities at Zurich Airport. However, they reject any growth at the airport “due to the pressing climate problems”, the statement says.

    The airport is “pleased to note” the decision, it writes in a statement. The extension of the runways was an important measure to increase the safety margin and stabilise operations. They do not lead to an increase in capacity. There is no correlation between the length of the runways and the number of aircraft landing and taking off.

    The Zurich Chamber of Commerce(ZHK) also welcomes the Commission’s decision. The existing system has proven to be “not stable enough”. Increased delays endanger “the function of Zurich Airport as Switzerland’s only intercontinental air traffic hub”, the ZHK writes in a commentary. “The runway extensions already demanded by the federal government enable the airport to function reliably and stably in all weather conditions.”

    The next step is for the cantonal council to decide. The project is subject to an optional referendum.

  • InfraWatt wants mandatory climate-neutral infrastructure

    InfraWatt wants mandatory climate-neutral infrastructure

    InfraWatt demands that climate neutrality of infrastructure facilities and their fair financing be made mandatory as well as the achievement of the net zero target. This, it says, will make fee financing possible. “Infrastructure facilities want to make an active contribution within the framework of the net-zero strategy by avoiding climate-relevant emissions and also offering further reduction services,” writes the association for energy use from wastewater, waste, waste heat and drinking water in a position paper.

    However, many measures are not implemented “because they are not yet part of the core task”. Therefore, the position paper should “outline the principles so that these potentials can be used”. In order to further promote greenhouse gas neutrality, the InfraWatt board has founded the decarbonisation working group.

    The association formulates three goals for infrastructure plants: First, they must avoid direct emissions of climate-impacting gases and substances, and second, they must exploit their potential to substitute fossil fuels. Thirdly, “point sources from infrastructure facilities” would have to be used for CO2 removal and offered as a service for negative emissions.

    According to the concept, the additional costs for a climate-neutral operation of the facilities should be covered by fees and the expenses for substitution services and negative emissions should be provided as a service. It must be clearly regulated what is to be financed by fees and what the end customers are to pay. Other options, such as the polluter-pays principle, should apply to negative emissions.