New models will expand energy sharing options in Styria

Two new models will make it easier to share locally generated electricity from autumn, ORF reports. More than 1,000 energy communities already operate in Styria, while Austria has more than 10,000.

Energy communities bring together private individuals, businesses or municipalities to use regionally generated electricity collectively. They can also offer financial benefits, said Johannes Kohlmaier of the Energy Agency Styria, because communities can set their own prices and help provide price stability for participants.

Under the new peer-to-peer model, for example, two neighbours will be able to trade electricity directly without first having to establish an association or another legal structure. One person could have a photovoltaic system, while the other has a metering point where electricity is consumed.

The second model, known as a self-supply system, will allow people with several electricity connections to use self-generated power at different locations. Kohlmaier gave the example of someone with an apartment in the city and a holiday home in the countryside, where the photovoltaic system is installed.

Initially, both models will work only within the same grid area. From April 2027, they are also expected to operate across the boundaries of different network operators. In Styria, which has more than 40 network operators, this will significantly expand the possible uses.