Sustainable Real Estate Switzerland sets itself sustainability goals

The Board of Directors of Sustainable Real Estate Investments Sicav has set energy and climate targets for Sustainable Real Estate Switzerland that are aligned with the energy and climate strategies of the Swiss government. As of the current fiscal year, the fund intends to invest 5% to 10% of the profit available for distribution in each case in improving energy efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions.

Specifically, among other things, thermal energy consumption in relation to rental space is to be reduced by 15% and general electricity consumption by 10% by 2030. From 2025, the annual production of electricity by means of photovoltaics is to be at least as high as the general electricity consumption of the portfolio. Also by 2030, greenhouse gas emissions are to decrease by one-third, and by 2050, the entire portfolio of the fund is to be climate neutral.

To this end, the fund wants to renovate the shells of old buildings to make them more energy-efficient and replace fossil-fuel heating systems with non-fossil-fuel ones. In new construction projects, fossil fuels are to be dispensed with completely; in addition, all suitable roof surfaces are to be equipped with photovoltaic systems.

The Sustainable Real Estate Switzerland fund invests primarily in residential real estate in the
Switzerland and holds a portfolio of 21 existing properties built between 1910 and 2020, as well as two new construction projects. Another project is scheduled to start in the fall of 2020. Around two-thirds of the portfolio is currently still heated by fossil fuels. (ah)