Electricity in Austria in 2024

Austria has achieved remarkable progress in its electricity sector, with more than 86% of its electricity coming from low-carbon sources. Hydropower, a stalwart in Austria's energy portfolio, provides most of the electricity, powering the nation with over half of its consumption. Wind and solar energy contribute significantly as well, accounting for about 12% and 11% respectively. In terms of fossil energy, this only represents a modest 13% of the electricity mix, with natural gas being the largest portion of this at around 9%. Notably, Austria's surplus in clean electricity allows it to export excess power, aiding neighboring countries in reducing their emissions. Still, the next major challenge is electrifying other sectors such as transport, heating, and industry, which will demand a significant increase in electricity generation.

Suggestions

To further enhance its clean electricity generation, Austria can focus on expanding its wind and solar installations. Given the existing infrastructure and success in these technologies, they provide a scalable pathway to achieving higher levels of low-carbon electricity. Encouraging investments and policy support in wind and solar will not only increase domestic supply but also strengthen Austria's position as a regional leader in clean energy exports. In addition, considering the global context, Austria should evaluate the potential for nuclear energy, which could provide a substantial, reliable, and consistent source of low-carbon electricity.

History

Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Austria, we see a series of fluctuations predominantly in hydropower generation. During the 1970s and 1980s, minor increases and decreases characterized hydropower's contribution, with a notable jump in 1987. Entering the 1990s and early 2000s, these fluctuations continued, though 2012 stands out with a substantial increase of 10 TWh. The more recent years saw varied changes, but 2023 marked a significant moment with a substantial rise in solar electricity generation by nearly 3 TWh, illustrating Austria's commitment to diversifying its clean energy sources. This historical glimpse underscores the need for strategic energy investments to ensure stability and growth in low-carbon electricity production.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources