Economic advice, method- and data-based

Thermal networks play a significant role in the decarbonization of heat supply. At the same time, the planning, operation, and further development of such infrastructure place high demands on economic efficiency, financing, and tariff setting.The new practical guide, “Costs and Tariffs for Thermal Networks,” helps operators establish a sound cost accounting system and design tariffs that are transparent and economically feasible. It addresses key issues related to planning and profitability analysis, system delineation, cost accounting, and tariff calculation.The guide is intended for operators of thermal networks and is designed to serve as a reference for identifying financial risks early on, recording costs transparently, and creating structures that are sustainable in the long term.The guide was developed by Polynomics AG and Rytec AG on behalf of Thermische Netze Schweiz with support from EnergieSchweiz and is available in German and French.

The decarbonisation of heat supply poses technical and financial challenges for gas network operators. Using the example of a municipality, RZVN and Polynomics demonstrate how a structured, holistic planning model can define the available scope for action and provide a basis for decision-making. The integral analysis model links technical target network planning – including sales scenarios, network development and hydraulic verification – with the financial modelling of cost and tariff trends. By simulating various financial and planning measures, network operators can anticipate unfavourable tariff developments and take corrective action at an early stage.

Geopolitical tensions, volatile energy prices, and ambitious climate targets continue to put pressure on the energy market. European natural gas prices have risen significantly in the short term due to the conflict in the Middle East, but far less sharply than during the 2022 energy price crisis triggered by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The futures market (TTF futures) currently anticipates a marked easing of the market by 2030. The short-term increase in natural gas prices temporarily strengthens the competitiveness of renewable gases.To enhance this competitiveness, the European Union has defined various strategic directions. In neighboring countries, the competitiveness of biomethane injection into the gas grid is currently improved by the fact that grid connection costs are not borne exclusively by producers but are partly socialized through the network. As long as no federal Gas Market Act (Gas-VG) is in force, the Swiss gas industry plays a key role in regulating cost allocation and the market integration of biomethane.According to the DeCIRRA research project, whether and where renewable gases can be used effectively depends strongly on local infrastructure, resources, and available alternatives—uniform target models fall short. In cantons where energy legislation is closely aligned with MoPEC 2025, the use of renewable gases in the building sector is significantly restricted. In contrast, Germany adopts a more open transformation pathway in its Building Modernisation Act, based on the so-called “Biotreppe” (bio-step mechanism), although its specific timeline remains subject to considerable uncertainty.