Electricity in Austria in 2023

Austria is making significant strides in clean electricity generation, with over 83% of its electricity coming from low-carbon sources. More than half of Austria's electricity is generated by hydropower, making it the leading source of clean energy in the country. Wind power contributes nearly 12%, and solar power adds almost 8% to the low-carbon mix. Biofuels account for a little over 5%. However, fossil fuels still represent about 15% of Austria's electricity, with natural gas being the primary fossil source at around 10%. The next challenge for Austria is to electrify other sectors like transport, heating, and industry. This will require a substantial increase in clean electricity generation to replace fossil fuels, which have severe climate impacts and contribute to air pollution.

Suggestions

To address this challenge, Austria can further expand its wind power capacity, as this low-carbon technology is already a significant part of the country's electricity mix. Investing in more wind turbines and advancing wind energy infrastructure will help increase the availability of clean electricity. Additionally, Austria can enhance its solar power initiatives given the country's existing capabilities and progress in this area. Exploring the potential for nuclear energy could also provide a reliable and substantial increase in clean electricity generation, helping to further reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and support the electrification of other sectors.

History

Austria's history with low-carbon electricity, particularly hydropower, spans several decades. In the 1970s, there were substantial increases in hydro generation, with notable jumps in 1974 and 1977. The late 1980s and early 1990s saw fluctuations, with significant gains in 1987 followed by declines in 1990 and 1996. The early 2000s experienced both large decreases, especially in 2003, and subsequent recoveries in 2004. Post-2010, there were significant fluctuations, with a remarkable increase of 10 TWh in 2012 but again experiencing declines in subsequent years. Despite these fluctuations, a notable increase of 5.1 TWh in 2023 underscores Austria’s enduring commitment to enhancing its hydropower capabilities. This historical pattern highlights Austria's ability to adapt and emphasize clean energy growth despite occasional setbacks. Through continual investment and technological advancements, Austria can maintain and increase its clean electricity generation to meet future energy needs.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources