Wien Energie takes over ImWind: green electricity for all households by 2030!

Wien Energie takes over ImWind: green electricity for all households by 2030!

A fresh chapter in Vienna's energy history opens today. Wien Energie has acquired all shares in the wind and solar power company ImWind. This move, approved by the relevant competition authority, marks a significant step forward in the city's energy transition. With the new ownership, the green electricity portfolio will be expanded to include 52 wind turbines and four large photovoltaic systems. This means that not only households, but also the city's entire transport sector will be converted to renewable energies by 2040.

Mayor Michael Ludwig emphasizes how important it is to become independent of fossil fuels. “Low energy prices are only possible through independence from gas,” says Ludwig. In addition to expanding wind and solar power, switching to flexible, green gas power plants is also a forward-looking goal. These are intended to replace the fossil gas power plants in Simmering and Donaustadt.

Ambitious goals by 2040

Wien Energie has set itself ambitious goals. The company plans to double its output from renewable sources to up to 1,800 megawatts by 2030. By 2040, this capacity is to be expanded to 2,800 megawatts at up to 100 locations. This development will not only help stabilize energy costs, but also significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The city also reports that solar power output has increased more than fivefold in the last five years.

In addition, a look at the past statistics shows: Energy consumption per capita in Vienna has now been reduced back to the 1993 level. Wien Energie and ImWind are already responsible for 526 photovoltaic systems, 26 hydropower plants and 145 wind turbines, which together cover the electricity needs of over 900,000 households. These efforts have a long tradition, as the first wind turbine in Vienna was put into operation in 1997.

Innovations and upcoming projects

The expansion plans don’t stop here. Two new wind farms will be completed by 2026 and the two companies are already working on new projects, including a small hydroelectric power plant that is scheduled to be operational in 2027. All of these steps are part of a larger initiative supported by the Austrian federal government to improve energy efficiency and further expand renewable energy sources. The strategic considerations for this energy system are based on transparent and consistent data, as documented in the annual “Energy in Austria” report.

The future of Vienna in terms of energy supply looks promising. The step towards 100% green electricity for all Viennese households seems to be within reach. With a clear view of sustainability and independence, Wien Energie is doing what is necessary to break out of dependence on gas and pave the way to a green future.

For further information on developments in Vienna's energy policy, visit the articles from W24, Vienna.gv.at and the publications of Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy.