Switzerland is revisiting its stance on nuclear energy, with the Federal Council proposing to lift the ban on building new nuclear power plants.

This move comes as a counterproposal to the "Blackout Initiative," which advocates for all climate-friendly energy sources, including nuclear.

While renewable energy expansion remains a priority, the government sees nuclear power as a backup for energy security, especially as electricity demand rises due to decarbonization and population growth.

Critics, including the Green Party and Social Democrats, argue this undermines the country's energy transition and public decisions made in 2017 to phase out nuclear energy.

Energy Minister Albert Rösti defends the proposal, citing changing energy needs and geopolitical uncertainties.

The debate is expected to culminate in a public referendum.