Large “Krone” survey among 1000 Austrians on the future of security of supply: more nationalization and political intervention are desired, a clear no to nuclear energy remains.
While Russian President Vladimir Putin turns the gas on and off as he pleases, the rest of Europe is trembling towards the cold season. The question also arises in Austria: do we have enough gas to heat all buildings? Should we save so much that we freeze in our own living room?
The state must intervene, is currently being heard from all sides. But would more government than private individuals be better? That’s exactly what Christoph Haselmayer of the IFDD Institute wanted to know and asked 1000 Austrians about the role of the state in the energy crisis on behalf of “Krone” from September 5-9.
State speculation is by no means welcome
77 percent are in favor of nationalizing Austria’s systemic infrastructure. From 66 percent of FPÖ voters to 85 percent of Greens, approval is high among all parties, age groups and education levels. Similarly, 83 percent want state-owned companies not to be allowed to speculate on the stock market.
At OMV, on the other hand, opinions are divided: 52 percent answered yes to the question of whether the Austrian mineral oil company should be taken over by the republic. Men (58 percent) and the generation older than 50 (57 percent) demand this at 47 percent more than women. Women and the younger generation showed the greatest uncertainty with 28 percent each in the ‘don’t know’ category.
Whether Putin will systematically destroy the European electricity market depends, of course, on voting behaviour. 60 percent say yes, while 62 percent of FPÖ voters say no. On the other hand, it seems quite clear whether politicians should intervene in the electricity market. 89 percent want even more bold political action on domestic electricity price regulation.
“Electric Price Brake” Gets High Approval Ratings
86 percent demand that the EU intervene in the market. The “electricity price brake,” which the chancellor announced last Sunday, is considered necessary by as many as 94 percent of the 1,000 respondents. While public buildings in Germany may only be allowed to be heated to 19 degrees in the future, Switzerland is doing a lot better. The Confederates are discussing 19 degrees privately.
We don’t go that far in this country, but in the event of a gas bottleneck, 78 percent would be in favor of industry and households saving together. However, 15 percent of households demand that only businesses “freeze” in an emergency.
When it comes to nuclear energy, the majority of Austrians continue to say no: 58 percent believe that, despite the crisis, it is not necessary for energy security. Furthermore, hydropower (93 percent), photovoltaic (92 percent), wind power (87 percent) and biomass with 61 percent are preferred. Only 12% want nuclear power. Again, there is an upward outlier of 22 percent for the FPÖ.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
