Summary
Details
- Austria
Developers, owners, and builders of new buildings installing heat supply systems.
Transitional rules for specific projects already underway.
Limited feasibility-based carve-outs may apply depending on implementing detail and provincial building practice.
Deep dive
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What’s Required
Austria’s Renewable Heat Act (EWG) is designed to reduce building-sector emissions by restricting fossil-based heating in new buildings.
Key requirements include:
General prohibition on installing fossil-fuel-based heat supply systems for space heating and/or hot water in new building construction.
Transitional provisions for projects already under construction or at specific permitting stages.
Practical compliance is enforced through building approval workflows and technical specifications during construction.
Notably, as described in practitioner overviews, the EWG focuses on new buildings, while existing buildings may be addressed through separate measures and subsidy pathways.
Important Deadlines
Entered into force: February 2024 (per published legal commentary).
Event-based: applies at permitting and installation decision points for new buildings.
Current Status
EWG is in force and is a core lever of Austria’s building decarbonisation strategy for new construction.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Permit refusal or denial of commissioning sign-off.
Orders to replace non-compliant systems.
Potential loss of eligibility for related public support.
Examples of Known Violations
Installing a gas boiler in a new build without qualifying for transitional status.
Attempting to classify a new build as a renovation to avoid the prohibition.
Resources
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