The three stages do not necessarily have to be called out one after the other. In the event of a delivery stop by Russia, it is therefore also possible to jump directly to level 3.
In Austria, as in other countries, there is the fundamental possibility of intervening in the gas supply market if problems arise. There is a three-stage “gas supply emergency plan” for this purpose. However, not all three levels have to be called out one after the other – in the event of a delivery stop by Russia, a direct jump to level 3 is also possible.
Level 1 – early warning level
It is called out when there are “concrete and reliable indications that the gas supply may deteriorate”. The main focus here is on close monitoring of the gas market by E-Control, with discussions being held in particular with large players such as storage operators and large consumers. There are no plans to intervene in the market here.
Level 2 – alert level
It is called out when the gas supply situation actually deteriorates. The industry is asked about its current gas requirements and asked to use alternatives to natural gas if possible. Bottlenecks should be avoided by closer coordination with the storage operators. Energy-steering measures are not yet planned. .
Level 3 – emergency level
The emergency level occurs when no more gas is supplied and the current demand can no longer be met. Industry must replace natural gas with other energy sources. Energy control measures, i.e. rationing, are also possible here. The primary goal is to ensure that households and small businesses are supplied with gas.
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