Electricity price increase: Warning of competitive disadvantage for Carinthia!

Electricity price increase: Warning of competitive disadvantage for Carinthia!

E-Control has announced a drastic increase in network tariffs for electricity, which amounts to around a quarter. This increase particularly affects rural regions, as the costs of maintaining and operating the networks are significantly higher there. This decision has already been viewed critically from various quarters and is triggering concerned reactions.

Jürgen Mandl, President of the Carinthian Chamber of Commerce (WK), sharply criticized the increase in network tariffs. He emphasizes that this measure represents a clear competitive disadvantage for Carinthia. Such price increases could seriously jeopardize economic development in the region, especially for smaller companies that rely on stable energy costs.

Background to the increase

The decision to increase network tariffs is due to the increasing costs of network maintenance. In rural regions, where the density of electricity consumers is lower, the fixed costs per customer are higher. This means that users in these areas are disproportionately affected by the increases, which represents an additional financial burden for many.

E-Control's move comes at a time when energy costs are already rising sharply. The current discussion about prices is gaining momentum and it remains to be seen how the affected companies and consumers will react to these developments. WK President Mandl also criticizes the fact that such increases go against efforts to achieve sustainable economic development in Carinthia.

Tariff reform not only impacts consumers, but could also worsen overall economic sentiment as more companies struggle to cover their operating costs. Experts warn that this could affect the region's innovative strength, further weakening its competitive position.

For a deeper analysis of the current situation and its impact on the Carinthian economy, see the report on www.wko.at.