In the future, transport as a whole must consume less energy in the canton of Bern. This contributes to the implementation of the cantonal energy strategy, which ultimately aims at a "2000 watt society". The measures to achieve this goal are set out in a report by the Executive Council.

Energy consumption in transport represents around one third of total energy consumption in Switzerland. It has so far been neither reduced nor stabilized in this sector, unlike other sectors.

Concrete measures to achieve the objectives

The Executive Council of Bern plans concrete measures to reduce energy consumption and emissions over the next four years. It wants, for example, a gradual conversion of the cantonal administration's fleet of vehicles to energy efficient engines. In public transport, the canton plans to co-finance the conversion of the bus fleet to low-emission vehicles. The Executive Council wants to encourage electric mobility in particular by equipping the cantonal buildings with the necessary recharging infrastructure. The canton already pays contributions to small and medium-sized enterprises for the construction of charging stations.

Encouraging cycling traffic and carpooling

With regard to the procedure for granting building permits, the cantonal government intends to relax the obligation to build parking spaces. In addition, priority routes should make cycling traffic more attractive. The canton also intends to support more carpooling projects. Guidance systems will be increasingly used to manage individual motorized transport, so there will be no need to develop road infrastructure. Finally, the Executive Council intends to strengthen the ecological incentive effect of the motor vehicle tax by adjusting its scales.

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