Labor Chamber Advocates for Network Fees from Electricity Producers

The Labor Chamber (AK) is advocating for the introduction of network fees for electricity producers as part of the ongoing debate regarding compensation for network usage. According to AK energy expert Joel Tölgyes, it is only fair that those who utilize the network contribute to its costs. Currently, electricity producers are responsible for approximately 6% of these costs, while consumers cover a staggering 94%. Tölgyes argues that increased accountability among producers will enhance the efficiency of the electricity network and reduce the need for expansion.

The proposed network fees aim to establish a fairer system that provides incentives for optimal network usage. Tölgyes notes that discussions around consumer-related incentives, such as time-dependent network fees, have been ongoing. These fees would encourage consumers to use the network more when capacity is available. Additionally, fees based on consumption levels would discourage high, simultaneous electricity usage, similar to traffic management strategies on congested roads.

As the landscape of the energy sector evolves, Tölgyes emphasizes the need to shift focus from consumer-driven to producer-driven network utilization. This transition necessitates that incentives for efficient network use be primarily targeted at producers. For instance, it could encourage wind turbines to be sited in areas where the network is already well-developed, or promote the construction of energy storage facilities adjacent to production sites, allowing for strategic electricity injection into the grid during low-demand periods.

Tölgyes expressed confusion regarding the opposition from electricity producers to the government's proposal for network fees on generated electricity. He highlighted perceived methodological flaws in a study conducted by Aurora for the energy sector, which compares Austria to other countries. The core issue remains whether a highly profitable sector should contribute fairly to the infrastructure it utilizes.

Concerns have also been raised among homeowners, particularly those with photovoltaic (PV) systems installed on their rooftops. The draft of the new Electricity Law (ElWG) proposed by Minister Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer (ÖVP) has met with significant backlash. Notably, Johanna Mikl-Leitner, the Governor of Lower Austria, voiced strong opposition, stating that private PV systems should be exempt from such regulations. The legislation is currently under revision, with discussions around exemptions for smaller PV installations, specifically those generating up to 3.68 kilowatts.

Despite the proposed regulatory changes, uncertainties remain regarding the actual level of network fees per kilowatt-hour of generated electricity. These rates will be determined later by the regulatory authority, E-Control, leading to concerns in the electricity sector about potential investment risks due to the lack of clarity.

Even minor network fees could pose significant challenges for PV system operators, particularly in light of the declining compensation rates for solar energy. Between March and September of this year, the compensation from the Renewable Energy Settlement Agency (OeMAG) dropped to under 6 cents per kilowatt-hour. Many energy providers have offered even lower rates, with the Verbund paying only 2.19 cents per kilowatt-hour in August and the Energy AG offering as little as 0.11 cents in June.