Austria's energy transition: open space PV as the key to achieving goals

Austria's energy transition: open space PV as the key to achieving goals

In the past few months, the topic of the energy transition in Austria has become increasingly important. In particular, the use of open space photovoltaics (PV) is the focus of the discussion. Experts, including Hubert Fechner, chairman of the technology platform Photovoltaic, have urgently emphasized that Austria can only achieve his ambitious climate targets with the massive use of open spaces PV.

According to a recent study by Fechner, it is clear that Austria needs an additional increase in photovoltaic energy of up to 21 terawatt hours by 2030. He points out that the potential on existing buildings and other infrastructures will not be sufficient to meet these requirements. Instead, the focus must be on the use of open spaces in order to generate the required amounts of energy.

The way to the energy transition

The energy transition comprises a number of measures that aim to replace fossil fuels with renewable energies. As part of this transition, photovoltaic technology is particularly promising. This process converts sunlight into electrical current and is therefore an important pillar of sustainable energy supply.

Fechner explains that Austria already has promising areas that-if they were used for PV production-offer considerable potential. However, these areas could also provide farmers an additional income by combining agriculture and energy generation. The integration of PV into agricultural uses could increase acceptance among the population, since agriculture remains.

There are also challenges that need to be mastered. The bureaucratic effort for permits and other legal hurdles are often a great obstacle to the implementation of PV projects. It currently takes time and patience to clarify the necessary regulations and to get the projects on the way.

Another critical point is social acceptance. While many support the advantages of renewable energies, there are also reservations compared to the conversion of agricultural areas into energy generation areas. This could lead to conflicts that need to be solved to enable growth in this area.

Overall, Hubert Fechner comes to the conclusion that without a clear strategy and the increased use of open space PV Austria may be missing its climate goals by 2030. Environmental protection and energy supply have to go hand in hand, and the use of open spaces offers the ideal solution to meet the growing needs sustainably.

Further details and backgrounds on these findings and the current situation of photovoltaics in Austria can be found in numerous studies and reports that are published on the website of the technology platform Photovoltaics and other specialist portals.