The Swiss National Energy Research Fund (NEFF) - 100 million Swiss Francs already for energy research

The oil, gas, coal and electricity supply industries have committed themselves since 1977, in each case for a three-year period, to make available to NEFF 14 million Swiss Francs per year. An independent Council distributes funds intended for applied research amongst applicants from educational establishments but, above all, from industry and business. Approximately one half of the 100 million Francs received so far has been used by the Confederation to finance international research commitments. Whilst support for 'newer' energies and long-term projects has resulted in internal criticism, the future existence of NEFF does not appear in doubt. (P.G.R.)