Energy Concerns Mount as Austria Pursues Russian Gas Phase-Out: A Closer Look at the Current Debates and Proposed Solutions

The ÖVP Minister of Economic Affairs, Martin Kocher, has issued a warning about the economic consequences of Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler’s (Greens) plans to quickly reduce dependence on Russian gas. Despite Austria’s commitment to phase out Russian gas by 2027, concerns about the practical implementation and potential challenges faced by gas providers in transitioning away from Russian gas have emerged.

In December 2023, 98 percent of Austria’s gas imports came from Russia, decreasing to 97 percent in January 2024 and 87 percent in February. To address these concerns, the Greens have presented a legislative package to the government partner ÖVP that aims to require gas suppliers in Austria to demonstrate an increasing proportion of non-Russian natural gas, starting with 40 percent in the first year. However, the ÖVP energy spokeswoman Tanja Graf has rejected this package and urged negotiations with Ukraine to continue gas deliveries from Russia beyond the end of the current contract.

Meanwhile, the Industrial Association (IV) has called for a consortium to bring Russian gas to Austria through Ukrainian transit pipelines. The discussions surrounding diversifying gas sources and reducing dependence on Russian gas have sparked debates and concerns among various stakeholders in Austria.

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