INTERVIEW - “If the population doesn’t want wind turbines, more large power plants are needed,” says CKW CEO Martin Schwab

CKW CEO Martin Schwab presents Switzerland with a choice: Either acceptance for wind turbines and other power plants, or large-scale power plants, to secure the energy supply. He calls for a consensus on the electricity mix, as cheap electricity without new facilities is unrealistic.

INTERVIEW - "If the population does not want wind turbines, more large-scale power plants are needed," says CKW CEO Martin Schwab

In September 2026, Martin Schwab, CEO of the Swiss energy provider CKW, presented the population with a clear choice regarding the future energy supply in an interview. He emphasized that Switzerland must find a consensus on the desired electricity mix, as simultaneously renouncing the construction of new power plants and expecting sufficient cheap electricity is not feasible. This statement underscores the tensions between energy policy goals and local acceptance.

The problem Schwab addresses is not new and affects many developed industrial nations. The phase-out of fossil fuels and the simultaneous desire for security of supply and affordability, coupled with resistance to new infrastructure projects—whether in the form of wind farms, solar plants, or even large-scale power plants—leads to a dilemma. Switzerland is in a particularly challenging position here, as geographical conditions and the high standard of living place high demands on the energy infrastructure. Schwab's statement reflects the need to communicate realistic scenarios and push for political decisions that can ensure a long-term and stable energy supply.

The strategic realignment of energy providers and the design of the future energy mix are central topics that also have high relevance in MBA programs. Managers and executives in the energy sector are required to consider complex economic, ecological, and social factors. The ability to manage stakeholder interests, evaluate disruptive technologies, and develop sustainable business models is crucial. Degree programs with specializations in energy management, sustainability management, or strategic corporate management prepare students for exactly these challenges by providing them with the necessary tools for market analysis, investment evaluation, and the implementation of change processes.

Challenges for Executives

For prospective MBA graduates, the aforementioned developments offer diverse career opportunities and scope for design. Companies in the energy sector are increasingly looking for professionals who not only possess technical understanding but also have strong business knowledge, negotiation skills, and an understanding of political processes. Leading energy transition projects, developing strategies for customer loyalty in a changing market, or introducing innovative storage technologies are areas where graduates with broad MBA knowledge are in demand. The discussion about the energy mix exemplifies the complexity of modern corporate management and the need for interdisciplinary competencies.