By the end of 2022, Austria’s installed solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity stood at nearly 3.8 gigawatts (GW). In 2023, the country added between 2.6 GW of new PV capacity, increasing the total to 6.4 GW. ^{6 7}

The Austrian solar energy market is expected to reach 4.46 GW in 2024 and 9.98 GW by 2029. Austria aims to achieve 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030 and have 1 million homes with solar panels by that date.Top of FormBottom of Form ^{7 8}

Coal-generated electricity: approximately $0.3 per kWh ^{9 10}

Electricity generated from natural gas – around $0.18 per kWh.

The feed-in tariffs for renewable energy:

• Wind power – $0.89 per kWh
• Solar power – $0.84 per kWh
• Hydro power – $3.9 – $11.13 per kWh
• Biomass – $5.08 – $5.89 per kWh

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• Hydro: 57.88%
• Natural Gas: 15.86%
• Wind: 10.07%
• Bioenergy: 6.69%
• Other Fossil Fuels: 5.14%
• Solar: 4.15%
• Coal: 0.21%

Austria’s electricity grid availability is exceptionally high, exceeding 99.99%. This reflects that electricity is almost continuously available throughout the day, with very few interruptions. ⁵

By the end of 2022, Austria had around 639,500 residential solar panel installations. ⁶

As part of its renewable energy goals, the country plans to equip 1,000,000 homes with solar panels by 2030.

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As of the end of 2023, Austria had 390,000 PV systems with a total installed solar capacity of 6.4 GW.

Notable large-scale solar farms include the ECOwind Grafenworth Solar PV Park and the Vienna Airport 8 Solar PV Park.

Several significant projects are underway, such as the Nickelsdorf Solar PV Park, which is expected to be completed in 2024, and expansions of existing sites like the Vienna Airport 8 Solar PV Park.

In the first quarter of 2024, Austria installed 497 MW of photovoltaic capacity, primarily driven by private households taking advantage of VAT exemptions for small systems. ^{15 16}

The demand for off-grid solar panels in Austria is driven by several factors:

• High Electricity Costs: Rising electricity prices encourage individuals and businesses to invest in self-generated solar power to reduce reliance on the grid.
• Technological Advancements: Improvements in solar technology and decreasing costs of solar panels make off-grid systems more accessible and economically viable.
• Environmental Concerns: Growing awareness of climate change and the need for sustainable energy sources motivate consumers to adopt off-grid solar solutions.
• Regulatory Support: Government incentives and policies promoting renewable energy adoption enhance the attractiveness of off-grid installations.

Austria’s on-grid solar panel market is experiencing significant growth. In 2022, over 1 GW of solar capacity was installed. Projections indicate an annual addition of 1.2 to 1.5 GW through 2030, aiming for a total of 13 GW to meet renewable energy goals. ^{17 18 19}

Despite growth, demand may stabilize due to economic uncertainties and grid expansion issues. Challenges include securing grid-connection permits, with 66% of industry respondents citing this as a major hurdle, and regulatory delays at federal and municipal levels slowing development. Economic factors like rising investment costs and land use conflicts further hinder progress.

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• The average monthly salary in Austria is $3,269.
• The average monthly salary for Solar Photovoltaic Installer is $4,687.
• The average monthly salary for a Solar Engineer is around $4,290.

The current population of Austria is 8,979,047. ²³

Estimate for Factory Rent ²⁴

Industrial space rents in Austria typically start from around $6.87 per square meter. This rate can vary depending on the specific location and the features of the property.

Industrial Electricity Rates ⁹

The average industrial electricity rate in Austria is projected to be approximately $0.24 per kWh, reflecting an increase from previous years.

Water Costs ²⁵

The average cost of industrial water per cubic meter in Austria varies by region. In Vienna, the industrial water price is approximately $2.33 per cubic meter, with an additional wastewater fee of $2.56.

Salaries and Wages ^{21 22}

Workers of solar industry in Austria averagely earn between $4,290 and $4,687 monthly, depending on the position.

Rent for Office Space ²⁶

The annual rent price for office real estate in Vienna is approximately $360 per square meter.

Insurance ²⁷

In 2024, the projected average expenditure per person in Austria’s property insurance market is expected to be $447.30.

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Electricity Generation

Austria’s electricity generation is predominantly based on renewable sources, with hydropower accounting for nearly 60% of total electricity production and significant contributions from wind and solar power. In 2023, the country generated approximately 72.6 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity. The Austrian government has set ambitious targets to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2030, necessitating the addition of substantial renewable capacity, particularly in solar and wind energy.

Transmission and Distribution

The transmission and distribution network in Austria is well-developed, enabling efficient electricity flow across the country and facilitating cross-border trade. Austria has a high interconnectivity level, with approximately 15.3%, exceeding the EU target of 10% for 2020.

Imports and Exports

Austria is a net importer of electricity, with around 8.7 TWh of net imports recorded in 2022. The country imports electricity primarily from neighboring countries, which helps balance supply and demand, especially during periods of low renewable generation.

Energy Policy and Development

The Austrian government has implemented several policies to promote renewable energy and improve energy efficiency. The Renewable-Expansion-Act (EAG) aims for a significant increase in renewable energy capacity, with specific targets for solar and wind installations by 2030. Additionally, Austria is working towards carbon neutrality by 2040, phasing out fossil fuel heating systems, and investing in renewable hydrogen development.

In Austria, the regulatory framework surrounding solar panel production is designed to promote renewable energy and facilitate the growth of solar power installations. Key regulations include: ^{31 32}

Renewable Energy Expansion Act (EAG)

This legislation, enacted in 2021, aims to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2030. It sets ambitious targets for solar energy deployment, including the installation of 1 million solar systems on private homes by 2030. The EAG also simplifies administrative procedures for solar project approvals, making it easier for developers to navigate the regulatory landscape.

Citizen Energy Communities

The introduction of citizen energy communities allows multiple households to produce, share, and consume renewable energy collectively. This regulation encourages local energy production and consumption, fostering community engagement in renewable energy initiatives.

Technical Standards and Safety Regulations

Austria has established various technical standards and safety regulations for solar panel installations, including guidelines for grid connection, system documentation, and safety measures. These standards ensure that solar installations meet safety and performance requirements, protecting both consumers and the energy grid.

Environmental and Planning Regulations

Solar projects must comply with environmental regulations and local planning laws, which may involve assessments of land use, environmental impact, and community engagement. These regulations aim to balance the development of solar energy with environmental protection and community interests.

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Next Generation EU Grants

Under the Next Generation EU funding program, grants of up to 45% of the installation costs for solar PV systems are available. This initiative is designed to boost renewable energy adoption and reduce CO2 emissions, making solar technology more accessible to homeowners and businesses.

Made in Europe Bonus

To promote local manufacturing, Austria has introduced a “Made in Europe” bonus for solar systems over 35 kW that use European-made solar modules. This initiative offers subsidies of 20% or more on installation costs, supporting domestic production and job creation within the solar industry.

Austrian Climate and Energy Fund Subsidies

In Vienna, grants are available for PV systems with capacities up to 100 kWp, providing $272.77 per kWp. For larger systems (101 kWp to 500 kWp), the subsidy is $218.22 per kWp. The total grant is limited to a maximum of 30% of eligible costs, encouraging both small and large-scale solar projects.

Grants for Green Roof Installations

Austria also supports the installation of PV systems on green roofs, offering grants of up to $436.43 per kWp. This initiative aims to integrate renewable energy solutions within urban environments while enhancing the ecological benefits of green roofs.

Incentives for Electric Storage Batteries

Additional funding is available for the installation of electric storage batteries in conjunction with PV systems, providing up to $327.33 for new lithium-based storage systems. This helps maximize the use of self-generated solar power and reduces reliance on the public grid.

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ECOwind Grafenworth Solar PV Park: A recently commissioned 24.50 MW solar PV park in Lower Austria, contributing significantly to regional renewable energy capacity.

Vienna Airport 8 Solar PV Park: This 24 MW solar PV facility, operational since 2022, supports Vienna Airport’s sustainability goals by harnessing solar power.

Energie Steiermark Solar PV Park: Located in Styria and commissioned in 2022, this 17.20 MW park plays a key role in expanding solar energy in the region.

OMV-Weinviertel Solar PV Park: With a capacity of 14.85 MW, this Lower Austria park, operational since 2020, enhances the local renewable energy infrastructure.

Donaustadt Solar PV Park: A 11.45 MW solar installation in Vienna, commissioned in 2021, which supports the city’s commitment to green energy.

Community Solar Projects: Growing interest in Austria’s community solar projects allows multiple stakeholders to invest collectively, expanding solar energy access.

Solar on Green Roofs: Vienna’s grant program for solar installations on green roofs provides up to $436.43 per kWp, encouraging urban renewable energy integration.

Nickelsdorf Solar PV Park: This 120 MW solar PV power project in Burgenland is under construction and is anticipated to begin commercial operations in 2024.

Lenzing Solar PV Park: A 5.50 MW solar PV project in Upper Austria, currently in the permitting stage, is expected to start operations in 2025, developed and owned by Lenzing.

Welser Profile Solar PV Park: Planned for Lower Austria, this 3 MW solar PV project is in the permitting stage and is set for commissioning in 2024, developed by Cleen Energy.

Fronius International

• Headquarter: Pettenbach, Upper Austria
• Website: https://www.fronius.com/en
• Description: Fronius is a leading Austrian company specializing in solar inverters and has been instrumental in the development of solar technology in Austria. Their projects include innovative solar solutions for residential and commercial installations, contributing significantly to the growth of the solar market.

Solarvie Austria

• Headquarter: Fohnsdorf, Austria
• Website: https://www.solarvie.at/
• Description: Solarvie Austria is a leading company specializing in solar energy solutions across Austria, committed to enhancing sustainable energy use. Their key projects include the Solarvie PV installations in various Austrian regions.

Kelag – Kärntner Elektrizitäts-AG

• Headquarter: Villach, Austria
• Website: https://www.kelag.at/
• Description: KELAG is a regional energy provider that has invested heavily in renewable energy projects, including solar. They have developed several solar farms and are committed to expanding their solar capacity in line with Austria’s renewable energy targets.

DAS Energy

• Headquarter: Wiener Neustadt, Austria
• Website: https://das-energy.com/en/home
• Description: DAS Energy is a leading innovator in the Austrian solar industry, specializing in large-scale photovoltaic projects with over 500 MW installed capacity. They utilize advanced bifacial solar modules and smart energy management systems to maximize efficiency and performance.

ENcome Energy Performance

• Headquarter: Klagenfurt, Austria
• Website: https://www.en-come.com/en/home/
• Description: EN-COME is a prominent player in the Austrian solar sector, with expertise in developing and managing large-scale photovoltaic projects totaling over 400 MW. Their advanced technology integrates high-efficiency solar modules and state-of-the-art monitoring systems to enhance performance and reliability across their extensive portfolio.

Lumen Solar

• Headquarter: Vienna, Austria
• Website: https://lumensolar.at/
• Description: Lumen Solar is a key innovator in Austria’s solar industry, focusing on large-scale photovoltaic projects with a combined capacity exceeding 300 MW. They leverage cutting-edge solar panel technology and intelligent energy storage solutions to deliver high-performance and sustainable energy solutions.

Enerix Solar

• Headquarter: Traun, Austria
• Website: https://www.enerix-solar.at/photovoltaik/oberoesterreich/
• Description: Enerix Solar is specializing in extensive photovoltaic projects with a robust portfolio exceeding 250 MW. Their innovative approach includes high-efficiency solar panels and comprehensive energy management systems to optimize performance and sustainability in Upper Austria and beyond.

Sonnenkraft

• Headquarter: Glan, Austria
• Website: https://www.sonnenkraft.com/
• Description: Sonnenkraft is a leading provider of solar energy systems in Austria, specializing in cutting-edge solar technology. Their portfolio includes notable projects such as the installation of over 50 MW of solar capacity across various Austrian regions.