Regenerative energy, also known as renewable energy, refers to energy sources that regenerate in natural cycles and are therefore available in the long term. These include wind energy, solar energy, hydropower, biomass and geothermal energy. In contrast to fossil fuels such as coal or natural gas, which are finite and release harmful emissions when burned, renewable energies are low-emission and more environmentally friendly. They play a key role in combating climate change and achieving climate targets.

In Europe, and particularly in Austria, the expansion of renewable energies has become increasingly important in recent decades. Austria benefits from its natural resources, especially hydropower, which has played a key role in the domestic energy supply for many decades. Almost two thirds of the electricity generated in Austria comes from hydropower, which means the country makes an important contribution to reducing CO₂ emissions.

Another area of growing importance is photovoltaics, which converts solar energy into electrical energy. Technological advances and falling costs have made the installation of photovoltaic systems more attractive for both private households and companies. The expansion of solar energy is supported by subsidy programs, which have been increasingly launched in recent years, particularly in Austria. Solar systems are not only important for the energy transition, but also contribute to independence from energy imports.

Wind energy is another important pillar of renewable energy in Europe. In Austria, it plays a decisive role, especially in windy regions such as Burgenland. Thanks to the increased efficiency of wind turbines and improved integration into the electricity grid, wind power is becoming increasingly important in Austria and throughout Europe. Austria aims to cover 100% of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2030, with wind power playing a central role.

In addition to wind and solar energy, biomass is also an important form of renewable energy. It is obtained from organic materials such as wood, agricultural waste or special energy crops. Biomass can be used to generate electricity, produce heat or as a biofuel. Biomass is widely used, particularly in rural areas of Austria, especially in combined heat and power plants.

The advantages of renewable energies are manifold: they contribute to energy independence, are more sustainable than fossil fuels and have a significantly lower environmental impact. They are also a key component in the decarbonization of the energy sector, i.e. the reduction of CO₂ emissions in order to curb climate change.

Nevertheless, there are also challenges. One of the biggest is the fluctuation of energy generation. Wind and solar energy are dependent on the weather, which can lead to fluctuations in energy production. In order to ensure grid stability, it is therefore important to develop and promote storage solutions such as batteries or pumped storage power plants. Austria is focusing on the expansion of pumped storage power plants, which can store surplus electricity and feed it back into the grid when required.

The promotion of renewable energies is supported in Austria and the EU by legal frameworks such as the Renewable Energy Expansion Act (EAG). This law is intended to promote the expansion of renewable energies and at the same time ensure that electricity demand is met in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.

In summary, renewable energies are the key to the energy transition and to achieving climate targets. They offer a clean, sustainable alternative to fossil fuels and contribute to securing the long-term energy supply in Austria and Europe.