New grid connection in Austria: deadlines, complaints

The short answer

A new home, a heat pump, a charging point or solar panels can need a new or bigger connection. The grid operator does this work, and many countries set deadlines and rules on costs.

📜 The rules in Austria

Grid connection

Apply to your grid operator. It must send a written cost estimate within two weeks of a complete written request, and reply to a complete connection application within two weeks with a concrete proposal for the next steps.

For household installations on the low-voltage grid the operating permit is due within four weeks; for generation plants up to 20 kW within two weeks. (ris.bka.gv.at)
Renewable generators up to 20 kW, e.g. solar panels, only need to be notified to the grid operator, which can object only within four weeks of complete notification. Solar up to 15 kW on an existing connection costs no extra connection fee. (ris.bka.gv.at)
The grid operator must answer enquiries and complaints within five working days; if a complaint is not resolved, it must point you to the E-Control conciliation procedure. (ris.bka.gv.at)

Official source: ris.bka.gv.at · Checked 2026-09-30

🪜 Step by step

Apply to the grid operatorApply to the grid operator for your address, not your supplier. Say what you want to connect and the capacity you need.
Ask for a quote and a dateThe grid operator should tell you the cost and when the work will be done. See the rules for Austria below.
Keep track of deadlinesWrite down the dates. If a deadline is missed, ask why in writing.
Complain if it goes wrongComplain to the grid operator first, then to the body named below.

📇 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

❓ Questions

Who pays for the connection?

Usually the customer pays a connection charge set by the grid operator or the regulator.

Why does my grid operator refuse or delay?

Sometimes the local grid is full. Ask for the reason and the expected date in writing.

Do I need a new connection for solar panels?

Often not for small systems, but you usually have to register them with the grid operator.

📎 Sources

Checked: 2026-09-30

🧭 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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🔗 New or bigger grid connection in Austria: how long may it take and who do I complain to?