Photovoltaic stagnation: federal states brake climate protection!

Photovoltaic stagnation: federal states brake climate protection!

In Austria, a questionable picture in relation to the expansion of photovoltaics is currently evident. The Federal Association Photovoltaic Austria) has published a new PV area check that shows sobering results. Despite many proven zones for photovoltaic projects in Lower Austria and Styria, progress stagnates.

In Styria in 36 priority zones, only six PV open space systems have been built in the past two years. In Lower Austria, the balance sheet looks even darker: Here, of 116 planned plants, only eight saw the light of day. Some federal states have also completely dispensed with the designation of PV priority zones, which further tightened the situation.

political need for action required

Herbert Paierl, the CEO of PV Austria, has sharp criticism of the lack of commitment of the federal states. He emphasizes that it is not enough to present plans on paper - the countries would have to provide urgently usable areas for the production of solar power. The goal of climate neutrality cannot be achieved without a comprehensive expansion of renewable energies, since roof systems alone are not sufficient.

At the same time, the energy transition is intensively discussed in Germany. The Bundestag a few months ago rejected an application from the AfD parliamentary group for energy supply. While the AfD questions climate -political measures in its applications and above all focuses on nuclear energy and coal -enhancing electricity, other factions warn of the consequences of climate change and emphasize the need for a stable climate policy.

The Agora Energiewende emphasizes the success of the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the electricity sector, but at the same time indicates the difficulties in other sectors. A comprehensive strategy that goes beyond the limits of parties and creates planning security for investments is required for the achievement of the climate goals.

The way to a sustainable future

The discussion about the energy transition is becoming more and more urgent. In Austria, a nationwide renewable expansion acceleration law (EABG) must be launched in order to improve the framework conditions for PV expansion and to seriously address the goals in climate policy. Only with a coordinated procedure can the climate goals be achieved and the necessary energy transition can be implemented.

whether Austria is ready to take the necessary steps will be shown in the coming months. However, the signs are currently on change- both at home and abroad.