New or bigger grid connection in Switzerland: how long may it take and who do I complain to?
A new home, a heat pump, a charging point or solar panels can need a new or bigger connection. The grid operator does this work, and many countries set deadlines and rules on costs.
📜 The rules in Switzerland
Grid connection
Grid operators must connect all end consumers in building zones and year-round inhabited properties outside them. The cantons assign the grid areas. ElCom decides disputes about grid access and grid-use conditions.
🪜 Step by step
- Apply to the grid operatorApply to the grid operator for your address, not your supplier. Say what you want to connect and the capacity you need.
- Ask for a quote and a dateThe grid operator should tell you the cost and when the work will be done. See the rules for Switzerland below.
- Keep track of deadlinesWrite down the dates. If a deadline is missed, ask why in writing.
- Complain if it goes wrongComplain to the grid operator first, then to the body named below.
📇 Who to contact
❓ Questions
Who pays for the connection?
Usually the customer pays a connection charge set by the grid operator or the regulator.
Why does my grid operator refuse or delay?
Sometimes the local grid is full. Ask for the reason and the expected date in writing.
Do I need a new connection for solar panels?
Often not for small systems, but you usually have to register them with the grid operator.
📎 Sources
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