Reducing Dependence on Russian Gas: Austrian Minister Kocher Warns about the Economic Consequences of Energy Minister Gewessler’s Plans

Austria’s Minister of Economic Affairs Martin Kocher (ÖVP) has issued a warning about the economic consequences of Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler’s (Greens) plans to quickly reduce dependence on Russian gas. All EU states have agreed to phase out Russian gas by 2027, and Ukraine has announced that it will suspend pipelines crossing its territory after the gas transit contract expires in early 2025. In December 2023, 98 percent of Austria’s gas imports came from Russia, decreasing to 97 percent in January 2024 and 87 percent in February. Kocher emphasized the importance of ensuring a smooth transition to alternative gas sources without causing a gas shortage.

Gewessler has presented a legislative package to the government partner ÖVP, which includes amendments to the Gas Industry Act, the Gas Diversification Act, and the Energy Steering Act. The package aims to require gas suppliers in Austria to demonstrate an increasing proportion of non-Russian natural gas, starting with 40 percent in the first year. While the goal of phasing out Russian gas is agreed upon, there are concerns about the practical implementation and potential challenges faced by gas providers in transitioning away from Russian gas.

The ÖVP energy spokeswoman, Tanja Graf, rejects the legislative package proposed by the Greens and urges negotiations with Ukraine to continue gas deliveries from Russia beyond the end of the current contract. The Industrial Association (IV) has also called for a consortium to bring Russian gas to Austria through Ukrainian transit pipelines. The discussions surrounding diversifying gas sources and reducing dependence on Russian gas have sparked debates and concerns among various stakeholders in Austria.

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