The term "value to be applied" refers to the price that operators of renewable energy plants receive for feeding electricity into the public grid. In Austria, this value is a key component of the promotion of renewable energy and is regulated by the Renewable Energy Expansion Act (EAG). The aim is to increase the competitiveness of renewable energies and support the transition to a sustainable energy supply.

The value to be applied is defined for various technologies such as wind power, photovoltaics, biomass and hydropower. It is intended to ensure that the operators of renewable energy plants receive appropriate remuneration for their investments. This value is usually guaranteed for a fixed period, which provides operators with an economic planning basis.

An important aspect of the value to be applied is that it is generally higher than the market price for electricity in order to promote the development of renewable energy sources. In Austria, the value is regularly reviewed and adjusted to market conditions. This ensures that the subsidies remain competitive and at the same time the costs for consumers do not rise excessively.

At European level, the value to be applied is also relevant as the EU encourages countries to liberalise their energy markets and increase the share of renewable energy. Austria's approach of setting the applicable value through tenders has proven successful. These competitive mechanisms can achieve lower costs for consumers and at the same time promote the expansion of renewable energies.

In Austria, the applicable value is often discussed in connection with the energy transition. In order to achieve the climate targets, a rapid expansion of renewable energies is essential. Therefore, setting a fair and incentivising rate of return is seen as key to achieving these targets. The country is aiming to achieve 100% electricity supply from renewable sources by 2030, and the applicable value plays a central role in this.

To summarise, it can be said that the applicable value is an important basis for the promotion of renewable energy in Austria. It supports the economic viability of renewable energy plants and contributes to the achievement of climate targets. In a changing European energy market, the applicable value remains a key instrument for promoting the transition to a sustainable and stable energy supply.