Along with nuclear energy, hydroelectric power is one of the two mainstays of virtually CO₂-free electricity production in Switzerland, accounting for around 56 percent of this. When discussing hydroelectric power stations, a distinction is made between run-of-river power stations (e.g. river-flow power stations), storage power stations (reservoirs) and pumped storage power stations. Many stakeholder groups are interested in using Switzerland's rivers and lakes. Axpo also wishes to put Switzerland's stretches of water to good use and play its part in generating electricity which is virtually CO₂-free. Axpo is also mindful of the fact that the construction and operation of hydroelectric power stations always has an impact upon nature. Therefore, it pays particular attention to the environmental aspects of hydroelectric power projects (e.g. creating fish ladders). New framework conditions must be devised, aimed at giving balanced consideration to the lobby for preserving natural habitats for fauna and flora and to those organizations that are interested in using rivers to produce electricity, for agricultural irrigation or as a location for recreational activities.