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Electricity & gas · Austria
Checked 2026-09-27

🏚️ My energy supplier went bust in Austria. What happens now?

The short answer

A supplier going bust does not usually mean your power goes off straight away. See below what happens in Austria, then choose a new contract.

📜 The rules in Austria

If your supplier goes bust

Since 2026 'Auffangversorgung' protects you: if your electricity contract ends (e.g. supplier insolvency) without a new one, a supplier appointed by E-Control supplies you automatically for up to six months. You can leave any time with two weeks' notice.

Official source: ris.bka.gv.at · Checked 2026-09-27

🪜 Step by step

  1. Read your meter todayTake a dated photo. It is the basis for the failed supplier’s final bill.
  2. Wait for the letterYou will be told who supplies you now and at what price.
  3. Choose a new contractTemporary supply is often more expensive. Compare offers and switch when you can.
  4. Claim your creditIf you paid in advance or have credit, file a claim with the administrator or ask how credit is handled.

📇 Who to contact

E-Control (Energie-Control Austria)Supervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules📞 +43 1 24 7 24-0🔗 www.e-control.at
Schlichtungsstelle der E-ControlSettles disputes with energy companiesWhen the company has not solved your complaint📞 +43 1 24724 444🔗 www.e-control.at/en/schlichtungsstelle
Verein für Konsumenteninformation (VKI)Independent advice for consumersFor advice, template letters and a second opinion🔗 www.vki.at

❓ Questions

Is the temporary price fair?

It is often higher than a normal contract, which is why switching soon usually pays off.

What happens to my credit?

That depends on the country and the insolvency. Keep your last bill and a meter photo as proof.

Can I choose another supplier straight away?

Usually yes. The rules for Austria are on this page.

📎 Sources

Checked: 2026-09-27

🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

🔗 Also useful

🔄Switching supplier→📈Price increase→🧾Wrong or high bill→💸Can’t pay the bill→📣Complaint about a supplier→

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