The enactment of the “Clean Energy for All Europeans Package” in 2019 established EU guidelines for energy communities for the first time and laid the foundation for a successful model in Austria: The national legal framework that allows for considerable flexibility along with the establishment of the national coordination office for energy communities strengthened Austria’s role as an early pioneer in Europe. By the end of 2025, more than 10 000 energy communities were in place across Austria, attracting more than 200 000 participants. The model has thus taken root in the Austrian energy market and continues to evolve from a technical, social, and environmental perspective. In addition to the shared use of electricity, it allows citizens to actively participate in the energy transition and addresses the issue of energy poverty. The new Electricity Industry Act (ElWG) has created additional momentum thanks to further regulatory simplifications.

There are some challenges still to be addressed, such as questions regarding grid flexibility and ensuring cost transparency. However, joint efforts taken by all stakeholders – the electricity industry as well as energy communities – will foster appropriate solutions.