Energy cities: role models in mobility

When Reto Rigassi first started as a consultant for the Energiestadt association 30 years ago, he spent a lot of time going door-to-door explaining the concept. “On the one hand, hardly anyone knew about the Energy City, but on the other hand, energy and climate policy played only a secondary role in many places, if at all.” Fortunately, those days are over. Today, no commune can afford not to focus on the topics of renewable energies, climate conservation and energy efficiency. This is also supported by the fact that 475 municipalities in Switzerland now bear the “Energy City” label (more). That equates to around 22% of all Swiss localities.

"Like other certifications, our label is more than a means to an end", stresses Rigassi. "Above all, we aim to achieve climate-friendly, sustainable energy supplies and usage. There is still a long way to go.” The energy cities are not yet there, but at least they are on the right track. And that's reflected in many different parts of society, not least mobility. This is hardly surprising: more than a third of energy consumption and CO2 emissions are attributable to this area. "Plus", says Rigassi, "communes often have much greater scope to take action in the field of mobility than in other areas." Communes are generally able to create attractive conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. Public transport is overseen by a higher authority, but they can still generate added value with flexible supplementary offers like free local buses and on-demand services. Rigassi also sees potential on the horizon in creating mobility chains. "We see combining different modes of transport – carsharing and trains, for example –as an obvious way forward. However, the groundwork for this still needs to be laid."

Rigassi is keen to highlight the many positive examples of communes that promote sustainable mobility. The Energiestadt advisor mentions a project from the city of Wil, in which Mobility is also involved. The company has completed a pilot project that involved electrifying the entire car sharing scheme in Wil. The city also offers all of its residents twelve months of mobilityPLUS. Wil has opted not just for e-car sharing but also an on-demand bus in the evenings that only goes where it is needed. There are also examples of success in other regions: Lugano and its companies rely on the Bikecoin reward system to get commuters on their bikes. The Energy Cities of Solothurn-Zuchwil and Thun are offering households and businesses delivery and disposal services with cargo bikes under the "Collectors" brand. And the Neuchâtel commune of Val-de-Travers has won an award for bike-friendly infrastructure with its combined pedestrian/cycle path.

The fact that so many communes are getting involved with the Energiestadt label programme isn't just down to local environment policy. “The label also contributes to a positive image of the municipality.” It’s also logical: Who doesn’t like living in a municipality that cares about the environment? "And of course, car sharing providers like Mobility are playing an important role in our journey towards a sustainable future", adds Rigassi. "In the end, it takes a combination of different measures to generate lasting success."