Tendering Authority

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), Infrastructure – Purchasing (Bern)

Procedure Type

Open procedure

Scope of Works

Excavation and reinforcement of a new pressure tunnel connecting the Bilsten compensation basin to the Altendorf power plant, forming part of the modernisation of the Etzelwerk pumped-storage hydropower facility.

Project Context

The Etzelwerk plant, constructed between 1932 and 1937, is wholly owned by SBB and supplies approximately 10% of Switzerland’s railway electricity demand. The modernisation programme includes replacement of turbines and penstocks to ensure long-term operational security.

Tunnel Details

• Tunnel type: Pressure tunnel
• Total length: approx. 2,170 m
• Excavation methodology:
• Initial section: approx. 85 m at 4% gradient, excavated by roadheader
• Main section: approx. 2,085 m excavated by TBM, subject to rock quality and overburden
• Gradient: between 4% and 33%
• Works: excavation, primary support and structural reinforcement

Contract Value

Not disclosed

Duration

As defined in the tender documentation

Deadline

30 April 2026 (some notices indicate 4 May 2026)

Contact Details

Client: SBB, Olten
Tel: +41 000000000
Email: hans-juergen.markert@sbb.ch

TED Notices

https://ted.europa.eu/en/notice/-/detail/72227-2026 (OJ S 022)
https://ted.europa.eu/en/notice/-/detail/56432-2026 (OJ S 017). 06/26.