Due to the cantons’ constitutional responsibility, there are different regulations in this area throughout Switzerland. The conference of cantonal energy counsels therefore adopted the 2014 model regulations of the cantons in the energy sector (MuKEn 2014), which aim to achieve the greatest possible harmonization and simplification of construction planning and the corresponding approval procedures. However, to be binding, these regulations must be implemented in the cantons’ energy laws.

After the implementation process in recent years, in practically all cantons, at least 10% of the newly generated heat must come from renewable energies or be saved through improved energy efficiency. In the cantons of Basel-Stadt, Zurich and Geneva, this percentage is 100% for all buildings. However, in the Zurich cost model, it can be proven that the green substitution of heating sources leads to considerable additional costs over the life cycle and, therefore, an exemption from the full 100% would be appropriate. In the cantons of Neuchâtel and Glarus, this regulation only applies to residential buildings, while other cantons stipulate a 10% or 20% share. As an exception, there is currently no corresponding regulation in the canton of Solothurn.

In the case of new buildings, an appropriate proportion of electricity consumption must be covered by self-production. If this is not possible or desirable, a replacement levy must be paid, for which an amount of CHF 1,000 per unrealized kilowatt output is recommended.

In 2023, the drafts of the cantons’ revised model regulations in the energy sector were published. The development of the MuKEn 2014 is entitled “Energy hub building.” This title highlights the fact that the building is increasingly becoming the central unit for the consumption, production and storage of energy. The specifications for heat generation and in-house electricity generation will be tightened. As a result, the MuKEN 2014 will gradually be replaced by new model regulations by 2025. It will then be up to the cantons to incorporate the requirements of the new regulations into their cantonal energy laws to be mandatory.