WWF warns: Safety risks at the Kaunertal power plant are exploding!

WWF warns: Safety risks at the Kaunertal power plant are exploding!

On April 25, 2025, WWF Austria is calling for a comprehensive and independent safety review for the Kaunertal power plant expansion project by the Austrian Reservoir Commission. The background to this requirement is the changing risks caused by natural hazards, which could affect both the existing storage facility and the planned project. According to the WWF, there are major safety risks that require a new review because the previous report from the reservoir commission is over ten years old and the effects of climate change were not taken into account at the time.

A current report from Dr. Wilfried Haeberli demonstrates serious security concerns. It shows that thawing permafrost is creating new glacial lakes and increasing the frequency of rockfalls, which in turn could trigger dangerous tidal waves. Maximilian Frey, a WWF expert, emphasizes that the possible neglect of such dangers should justify the immediate withdrawal of the project.

Risks from climate change

The increasing intensity and frequency of natural hazards caused by climate change is a key concern that should not be overlooked in this debate. An expertise from the Federal Environment Agency deals with the dangers for industrial plants, especially those with dangerous substances, which can be triggered by natural hazards caused by climate change such as floods, heavy rain and storms. The necessary adaptation strategies for risk management have so far only rarely been taken into account by system operators, which represents a significant safety risk.

The recent incidents in Fukushima and Sendai highlight the potential consequences of such natural hazards and the challenge they pose to the safety of industrial facilities. National and international activities, including workshops to develop recommendations for risk analysis and emergency planning, emphasize the need for cross-border cooperation in addressing these issues.

Recommendations for a secure future

The expertise of the Federal Environment Agency highlights the importance of legislative measures to prevent technical accidents that could be triggered by natural hazards (Natechs). It is recommended to improve safety standards and implement techniques to limit pollutant releases and prevent fires and explosions.

To ensure the safety of society, the Reservoir Commission should act urgently. The WWF appeals to those responsible to take the increasing risks from climate change seriously and to make the necessary checks and adjustments.