The European Energy Exchange (EEX), based in Leipzig, is one of the most important energy exchanges in Europe. It was founded in 2002 and has since established itself as a central trading centre for various energy sources such as electricity, natural gas, oil and emission allowances. EEX enables market participants to trade energy in a transparent and regulated environment, thereby promoting fair pricing and competitiveness.

In power trading, EEX offers both short-term and long-term trading. The spot market allows players to buy and sell power for next-day delivery, while the futures market comprises contracts for future delivery. These market segments are crucial for managing volatility in the electricity price and enabling energy suppliers to reliably plan their production and consumption costs.

In Austria, the EEX is particularly relevant as the Austrian electricity market is closely linked to the European market. Via the EEX, Austrian energy suppliers and consumers have access to prices and trading opportunities based on the major European electricity markets. This not only enables the efficient integration of renewable energies, but also the utilisation of cross-border trading opportunities to increase security of supply.

Another important segment of EEX is trading in emission certificates. As part of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS), companies that want to reduce their CO₂ emissions can buy or sell certificates. This creates incentives to reduce emissions and supports the EU's climate targets. The EEX plays a key role in the pricing of these certificates, which is crucial for planning investments in low-emission technologies.

In addition to the trading offers for power and emission allowances, EEX has also added the natural gas market to its portfolio. This contributes to the diversification of energy sources and the stabilisation of supply. Trading in natural gas on EEX enables market participants to hedge against price fluctuations and, at the same time, to benefit from the advantages of a liquid market.

EEX continuously develops its trading products in order to meet the changing requirements of the energy market. This includes the introduction of new products, the improvement of the trading infrastructure and the promotion of innovations in the field of renewable energies and storage technologies.

At European level, EEX has assumed a pioneering role in the integration of the energy markets. The close co-operation with other European exchanges and market players promotes smooth and efficient trading, which ultimately contributes to the achievement of climate targets and the creation of a sustainable energy market.

To summarise, it can be said that EEX plays a central role in the European energy market. It not only enables trading in electricity, natural gas and emission allowances, but also promotes transparency and competitiveness in the market. For Austria, the EEX is an important link that facilitates access to European markets and supports the integration of renewable energies. At a time when the energy transition is becoming increasingly important, EEX will continue to play a key role in shaping the energy market.