The DETEC Ordinance on Certification of the Method of Production and Source of Electricity (certificate of origin) came into force at the end of 2006. The Ordinance gave Switzerland a clear legal, non-discriminatory and EU-compatible regulatory framework for issuing certificates of origin for electricity and for labelling electricity for end consumers. This ensures that electricity consumed by end customers can be traced back to its origins. Certificates of origin for the electricity industry serve as proof for electricity labelling: since 2006, all energy supply companies have been required by law to provide their end customers with information on the electricity mix they supply. The labelling gives end consumers the opportunity to evaluate the electricity they receive based on qualitative criteria or to select from different products provided by the energy supplier. From the 2027 delivery year, quarterly electricity labelling will also apply. For example, only certificates of origin from winter production may be used for electricity consumption in winter. Pronovo AG is responsible for issuing the certificates of origin.
The DETEC Ordinance on the Certificate of Origin for Thermal and Motor Fuels came into force on 1 January 2025. Certificates of origin will now be issued for renewable liquid and gaseous thermal and motor fuels of biogenic and non-biogenic origin, non-renewable hydrogen and low-emission aviation fuels. The certificate of origin system highlights the environmental added value of certain substances and prevents double counting. It also helps to harmonise and simplify enforcement of climate and energy policy instruments. Pronovo is responsible for enforcing the certificate of origin system for renewable thermal and motor fuels. The link below (in the ‘Links’ tab) will take you directly to Pronovo’s website, where you can find all the important information on the certificate of origin system for renewable thermal and motor fuels.
