Thick socks instead of heating and cold showers instead of warm relaxation baths: for months people have been wondering what to expect during the cold season in Austria. What is certain is that appalling electricity prices are prompting the country to conserve energy. Under the heading “Mission 11”, the “Federal Government Energy Saving Campaign” was presented on Monday. According to Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler, Economic Affairs Minister Martin Kocher and representatives of Austria Energy and the Austrian Energy Agency, each Austrian household can save 11 percent. “We encourage everyone to do that today,” says Gewessler.
It is already clear: Minister Gewessler confirms that the gas restriction from Russia is an attempt to blackmail President Putin. According to her, this is not only a war with Ukraine, but “also a war against us.” For her, Russia is no longer a reliable partner. “There is no going back. Back to cheap Russian gas.” That is why you prepare as well as possible together with your partners.
“Be able to take measures in an instant”
According to Gewessler, the energy-saving measures have already noticeably reduced gas consumption. Again, the focus for her is, “We need to expand renewables and move away from Russian gas.” According to the government, everyone can contribute to this. The energy saving campaign presented by Gewessler and Kocher runs until March 2023 and is called “Mission 11”. The campaign is aimed at all people who have the opportunity to save energy. “People who have little receive other help and should not feel pressured,” said the energy minister. For the ministers, the campaign is straightforward: “With a few simple steps, you can implement the measures in everyday life,” said the minister.
Tips would be to drive slower, put the lid on the pan and heat it a few degrees lower. According to the government, these are “all tips that are immediately applicable.” But why is the campaign called “Mission 11”: Because every household can save 11 percent of its energy.
This was analyzed together with Franz Angerer from the Austrian Energy Agency: “We have made estimates of how much energy can be saved quickly.” The result was 11 percent, which every Austrian could save.
The situation is putting enormous pressure on households and businesses
Martin Kocher is also convinced of the campaign: “The situation calls for solidarity. The campaign is an example where many can make an important contribution.” Because the situation is serious and puts enormous pressure on households and businesses, yet the minister is confident and emphasizes: “Ideally, winter will be no different from any other. But we are prepared.” Every percentage point in electricity consumption that the country saves helps to keep the price of electricity from rising.The campaign is mainly aimed at households to get through the winter. “I am convinced that if we stay in solidarity, we will succeed” Kocher said.
Source: Krone
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