Österreichs Energie – Forschung & Innovation
2025
How do electricity prices affect the competitiveness of industry?
In order to assess the development of energy prices in an international comparison and their impact on the competitiveness of the Austrian economy, Österreichs Energie – Forschung & Innovation commissioned Prognos to conduct an international electricity price comparison. We also examined possible state instruments to strengthen the competitive position of Austrian companies for the study.
The international electricity price comparison revealed the following key points:
The necessary transformation of industry includes comprehensive electrification. This means that an increase in the share of electricity costs is to be expected in almost all sectors. Low electricity costs and greater efficiency of electricity-based technologies can create incentives to implement electrification measures quickly.
The general level of electricity prices can be reduced in the long term by expanding renewable energy and reducing fossil fuel-based energy production.
In the assessment of government instruments for improving the competitive situation, the Electricity Cost Compensation Act (SAG) comes out on top. It is targeted and addresses those businesses in whose production electricity costs are highly relevant.
To the study (PDF)
Project team: Jana Carola Breitenstein, Sven Kreidelmeyer, Dr Fabian Muralter
Last update: 16.05.2025
Senior Project Manager
The Federal Ministry of Economics promotes digital technologies that drive forward the economy’s green transformation. Together with partners, we are responsible for the accompanying research.
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