The “Thermal Networks of the Electricity Plant” framework credit is intended to cover the large-scale expansion of the ewz energy network for fossil-free heating and cooling in the city.

It should provide the necessary financial basis for the generation project over the next 18 years until 2040, as the city council announced on Tuesday.

The project comprises six sub-projects, the implementation of which will be decided individually by the city council. With the expansion, the ewz can supply the areas in Albisrieden, Altstetten, Aussersihl, City, Enge and Höngg with sustainable energy for heating or cooling.

The plans are coordinated with further expansion projects of ERZ Fernwärme und Energie 360°. Last autumn, voters approved a loan of CHF 330 million to expand the district heating network of ERZ Entsorgung + Recycling.

With the launch of the framework credit, two preliminary investments are necessary at the same time. On the one hand, a property loan of around 3.6 million for the Höngg-Zentrum energy network. On the other hand, a project loan for the “Coolcity” energy network between Bürkliplatz and the main station in the amount of around 5.8 million.

Both are preliminary investments of the framework credit to be approved. This will now go to the municipal council for consultation and will then be presented to those entitled to vote for a decision. The election is scheduled to take place in 2022.