All construction projects within the protection zone of a pipeline system require a permit and are subject to federal law. The protection zone for pipelines is 10 metres to the left and right along the entire length of the pipeline. For auxiliary installations, this area is between 10m and 50m, depending on the type of station.

As the technical supervisory authority, the ERI ensures that these installations are planned, constructed and maintained in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. The pipeline systems include stations (ancillary systems) and pipelines that are required for the transport of liquid or gaseous fuels.

The entire gas network in Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein can be roughly divided into two (pressurised) application areas. The low-pressure gas network (e.g. municipal network, distribution network, etc.), which has a maximum operating pressure of 5 bar (MOP 5bar), and the high-pressure gas network (transport network), which requires a maximum operating pressure above 5 bar. The high-pressure gas network is subject to federal supervision, which is why the ERI carries out the technical supervision. For the low-pressure gas network under cantonal supervision, this activity is usually carried out by the TISG.

A comprehensive overview of the Swiss gas transportation network, including the cross-border entry points, can be viewed on the Swissgas network map. Information and an overview of the entire European gas network is presented in detail in the SYSTEM CAPACITY MAP.

An overview of existing and new methane and hydrogen pipelines in Europe is provided with current live data. This information is available on the Europe Gas Tracker Map of the Global Energy Monitor.