Federal Councillor Albert Rösti at the Ministerial Conference of the International Energy Agency
Berne, 17.02.2026 — Federal Councillor Albert Rösti will attend the Ministerial Conference of the International Energy Agency (IEA) in Paris from 18 to 19 February. While there, he will meet with his counterparts from the IEA's 32 member states. Topics will include the latest developments in energy markets and energy policy strategies, as well as the role of nuclear energy in the energy mix. Other items on the agenda are energy security, affordability and sustainability, and the long-term availability of critical raw materials.
On 18 February, the focus will be on nuclear energy. Mr Rösti will explain the situation in Switzerland, where nuclear energy accounted for around 27 per cent of electricity production in 2025 and remains an indispensable, climate-friendly source of base-load power. In the short and medium term, however, the country is focusing on expanding renewable energies, such as hydropower, solar power and wind power. In order to secure or increase the long-term supply, the Federal Council is keeping the option of new nuclear power plants open. Voters will decide on this issue as part of the revision of the Nuclear Energy Act.
The IEA Ministerial Conference, held in Paris every two years, gives member countries the opportunity to analyse developments in energy markets and discuss their implications for security of supply, financing and sustainability. The conference will be attended by high-level government delegates, as well as representatives from business, civil society and international organisations.
The IEA Governing Board will meet at ministerial level on 19 February. One of the main topics will be the security of supply. Switzerland has no significant gas or oil reserves and is entirely reliant on imports. Gas supplies are based on open trade, long-term supply contracts and storage facilities abroad, with the federal government and market participants sharing responsibility for coordination, crisis prevention and operational management. Close cooperation with neighbouring countries is essential for Switzerland, as it acts as a transit country between France, Germany and Italy.
“Security of supply is paramount for Switzerland. That is why we are resolutely pushing ahead with the expansion of renewable energies, while keeping the option of new nuclear power plants open. By working with our European neighbours and adopting an open policy with regard to technology, we are ensuring the long-term security of our energy supply,” said Mr Rösti.