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University energy supply

On this website you will find the latest information from the University of Bern concerning energy supply.

Update 19.12.2022: The supply of energy is currently ensured. However, the situation must still be taken seriously and great attention must be paid to economical energy consumption. Depending on the further course of the weather and political developments in Europe, or if several risk factors occur simultaneously, further restrictions cannot be ruled out. In order to prepare for a possible shortage situation, the university is currently examining options for action with the least possible impact on operations and calls on all employees and students to implement electricity-saving measures - no matter how small - in their professional and private spheres.

Update 7.11.2022: Supply in Switzerland and at the University of Bern is currently guaranteed. However, it is likely that a reduction in consumption will continue to be necessary to prevent shortages in Europe and Switzerland this winter and the next. For this reason, the university is currently preparing for possible restrictions and assessing potential areas for action - with as little direct influence on research, teaching and services as possible. The University calls on all employees and students to implement power-saving measures - no matter how small - in their professional and private spheres.

Update 13.10.2022: The Cantonal Government of Bern has approved a second package of energy-saving measures in the education sector. This will also be put into effect at the University of Bern. Among other things, it stipulates lowering indoor temperatures, optimizing ventilation, and eliminating unnecessary lighting. The measures will apply starting October 17th, 2022. Supply is currently guaranteed.

There are new challenges in terms of supplying gas and electricity for the winter 2022/23. Energy is expected to become scarce – and that means in Switzerland, too.

To make sure that we don’t end up with an existential shortage during the winter months, the Federal Council has set up a special task force and introduced a four-phase plan (explanatory video in German). Currently, we are in the first phase, an appeal to save electricity – in other words, a voluntary reduction of energy consumption. The Federal Council has launched a campaign (in German) for this purpose.

The Cantonal Government of Bern has approved a package of energy-saving measures. This includes the following:

The maximum temperature in lecture rooms, study rooms, libraries, recreation rooms, checkrooms and showers will be limited to 20 degrees. Multipurpose halls, sports halls and gymnasiums will be heated to a maximum of 17 degrees, storage rooms to 7 degrees, and empty rooms to 13 degrees. Private heaters will be prohibited.
During lessons, classrooms should be ventilated for short periods of time (letting fresh air in). Regular ventilation is an important measure for the containment of the COVID pandemic, therefore it should be continued as before. However, continuous ventilation and tilted-open windows are not permitted. Windows and shutters are to be closed at night and on weekends. Where it is not necessary, hot water will not be used, particularly for hand washing in bathrooms.
Outdoor lighting that does not serve security purposes is to be avoided, namely Christmas lights and outdoor lighting of objects. Lighting in corridors and classrooms shall be turned off when there is sufficient daylight.
Energy-saving modes must be activated for electronic devices. Appliances shall be turned off and disconnected from the power supply whenever possible, especially at night and over the weekend.
Avoid using the elevators and use the stairs whenever possible.
Heating systems, water heating systems, ventilation systems and lighting systems shall be optimized. This also applies to the operation and use of machinery and equipment, for example at vocational schools and training workshops.

The University calls on all employees and students to implement power-saving measures - no matter how small - in their professional and private spheres.

Current information

Here you will find answer to other relevant questions and general information on energy and energy supply.

Federal Office for National Economic Supply FONES: FAQ energy supply (in German)

Federal Office for National Economic Supply FONES: Energy