Energy Policies of IEA Countries: Austria 2014 Review

Austria’s energy policy rests on three pillars: security of supply, energy efficiency, and renewable energy sources. The country’s decarbonisation drive has strengthened as the economy and renewable energy use have continued to grow, while fossil fuel use has decreased. Greenhouse gas emissions from energy use, which peaked in 2005, still need to be reduced further, and the transport sector offers prime opportunities for this. In the context of EU negotiations on an energy and climate policy framework to 2030, Austria should develop a strategy that also integrates security of supply and internal market dimensions. Austria should also encourage investment in networks, optimise demand response and integrate variable renewable energy supply in a cost-effective and market-based manner. This review analyses the energy policy challenges facing Austria and provides sectoral studies and recommendations for further policy improvements.