Austria’s draft Electricity Act 2025 (ElWG) represents an important step towards a modern and European-aligned electricity system. The proposal includes several elements that can positively support the development of Renewable Energy Communities (RECs), while some aspects still require clarification to fully unlock their potential.
From a community perspective, the draft introduces promising measures such as more transparent and performance-based grid tariffs, incentives for flexible grid use, and enhanced digital customer communication. Peak shaving for PV and wind generation can help integrate community-based renewable projects more efficiently into existing grids. Greater flexibility in billing and a clearer approach to basic supply conditions also improve the consumer experience within energy communities.
However, the energy sector identifies open issues that are particularly relevant for RECs. These include grid charges for feed-in, the legal and financial treatment of storage solutions, and questions around data access, metering and digitalisation. Without sufficient legal certainty, these areas may slow down investments and the practical implementation of community energy projects.
In this context, HERCULES-CE plays a key role by supporting Renewable Energy Communities in navigating regulatory frameworks, building operational capacity and translating policy developments into practical solutions. A clear, fair and community-friendly Electricity Act will be essential to ensure that RECs can actively contribute to the energy transition across Central Europe.