Is there help with energy costs in Austria?

The short answer

Many countries have a social tariff, a discount or an allowance for people on a low income, and free advice on saving energy.

📜 The rules in Austria

Help if money is tight

Since 1 April 2026: people exempt from the ORF fee (and receiving e.g. pension, care allowance, social assistance or AMS benefits) pay 6 ct/kWh net energy price for 2,900 kWh a year. Apply for ORF-fee exemption at OBS; the tariff then applies automatically.

Sozialtarif (gestützter Preis) 🔗 bmwet.gv.at

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

Free energy advice

Each federal state runs mostly free, independent energy advice. The Klima- und Energiefonds funds energy-saving advice and appliance replacement for low-income households.

Energieberatungsstellen der Bundesländer 🔗 oesterreich.gv.at

Regulated price

There is no state-set general electricity price. Under 'Grundversorgung', any supplier serving households must supply you at the price of its standard product for new customers; a deposit of at most one month's instalment may be required.

Grundversorgung 🔗 ris.bka.gv.at

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

🪜 Step by step

See what existsThe schemes in Austria are listed below, with who qualifies.
Check if it is automaticSome discounts are applied automatically. For others you have to apply.
Get free adviceFree energy or debt advice can help you lower your bills and deal with arrears.
Talk to your supplierAsk about a cheaper tariff or a payment plan, and register as a vulnerable customer if that applies.

📇 Who to contact

Sozialtarif (gestützter Preis)Discount or support scheme for energy costsIf you have a low income or receive benefits🔗 www.bmwet.gv.at/Services/Infos-FAQ/sozialtarif.html

Energieberatungsstellen der BundesländerFree advice on energy costs and saving energyWhen bills are too high or you are behind on payments🔗 www.oesterreich.gv.at/de/themen/umwelt_und_klima/energie_und_ressourcen_sparen/1/energieberatung

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

❓ Questions

Do I have to apply?

It depends on the scheme. The details for Austria are on this page.

Who gets the discount if I rent?

Usually the person named on the energy contract.

Is there help for heating oil or wood?

Some countries have separate heating allowances. Ask the social services of your municipality.

📎 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.

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🤝 Is there help with energy costs in Austria?