The Swiss transmission system is one of the densest in the world, encompassing some 15,000 electricity pylons and 120 substations. To ensure Swiss electricity supplies, it is essential that these facilities are continuously maintained.

The Swiss transmission system is a pioneering achievement of the post-war period. However, the facilities are now 40 to 50 years old and the system was not planned or implemented with a nationwide perspective in mind. The current transmission system is no longer able to fulfil the functions required of a modern system.

Only a continuous, high level of maintenance has allowed it to function thus far. Substations and power lines need to be inspected, maintained and, where necessary, repaired on a continual basis. As the future owner of the transmission system, Swissgrid will assume responsibility for planning the maintenance of the facilities. This will mean Swissgrid determining what maintenance needs to be carried out where and at what point in time. The onsite works will be carried out by trusted external partners. Our objective is to ensure that Switzerland has a secure supply of energy 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.