As reported, the coal-fired power station in Mellach, Styria, is being put back into operation. A corresponding regulation will be presented to the Energy Management Advisory Council on Wednesday. Power stations that can run on both gas and oil are also affected.
In detail, all power plants, district heating plants and industrial companies that have a contractually agreed maximum capacity of more than 50,000 kilowatt hours are obliged to check their systems and take all precautions to switch from gas to another energy source in the event of an emergency. This affects large consumers of natural gas who are technically, economically and legally capable of switching.
The state bears the costs of conversion
“As this is an energy management measure, the conversion costs are fully reimbursed to the companies involved. Every kilowatt hour of gas we don’t use helps us reduce our dependence on Russia,” said Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) on Tuesday.
preparations are in full swing
The aim of the scheme is that energy suppliers and industry will start using other fuels such as coal, oil or biomass in the event of a gas shortage or a supply stop. According to a press release from the Ministry of Climate, the switch to the heating season this year is only possible in a few large systems such as power plants.
Some companies, such as Salzburg AG and Wien Energie, are already preparing to burn fuel oil instead of gas next winter. In some district heating plants, this is possible without much effort, as they are designed for use with multiple fuels.
After the regulation has been discussed in the Energy Management Advisory Council, it is sent to the main committee of the National Council. A two-thirds majority is required for the decision. The coalition parties ÖVP and Greens would therefore still need the approval of the SPÖ or FPÖ.
Source: Krone
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