New rules would ease solar projects at cable-car facilities

New rules are intended to simplify approvals for photovoltaic systems at cable-car facilities, ORF reported. The consultation period for an amendment to the regulation on construction projects exempt from approval ended on Tuesday.

The amendment would make it easier to install solar systems at valley and mountain stations and at technical facilities without lengthy approval procedures. Operators could use existing space more quickly to generate renewable energy, increase their level of self-sufficiency and make their businesses more sustainable, the Infrastructure Ministry said.

The regulation would also be comprehensively updated based on the practical experience of cable-car authorities. The list of construction projects exempt from approval would be expanded, existing uncertainties removed and further procedural simplifications introduced. Technical upgrades would also become easier to carry out.

Infrastructure Minister Peter Hanke of the Social Democratic Party said the amendment would allow cable-car companies to invest in photovoltaic systems more quickly and with less bureaucracy. This would reduce administrative work, accelerate the energy transition and strengthen the competitiveness of tourism businesses, he said.