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Electricity & gas · Austria
Checked 2026-09-30

🩺 I depend on medical equipment or I am vulnerable: is there extra protection in Austria?

The short answer

People who rely on electrically powered medical equipment, older people and people on a low income often get extra protection. You usually have to register or tell your supplier and grid operator.

📜 The rules in Austria

Vulnerable and medical customers

Electricity suppliers covered by the Energy Efficiency Act must run free advice centres, including on affordability, basic supply and energy poverty, and name trained staff for hardship cases on their website.

  • Every reminder before a disconnection must tell you about these advice centres. (ris.bka.gv.at)
Official source: ris.bka.gv.at · Checked 2026-09-30

🪜 Step by step

  1. Check who counts as vulnerableSee below who is protected in Austria and what the protection covers.
  2. Register or inform your supplierAsk your supplier and grid operator how to register. A doctor's certificate may be needed.
  3. Plan for a power cutProtection against cut-offs for debt does not stop faults. Keep a backup plan for your equipment.
  4. Keep your details up to dateTell your supplier when your situation changes, and renew any certificate in time.

📇 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
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
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

Can I be cut off for debt if I am registered?

Many countries forbid or limit cut-offs for protected customers. The rules for Austria are on this page.

Will I be warned before planned works?

Registered customers are often told about planned interruptions in advance. Ask your grid operator.

Is there help with the costs?

Many countries have a social tariff or support scheme. Ask your supplier and your municipality.

📎 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.

🔗 Also useful

💸Can’t pay the bill→🤝Help with energy costs→🔌Power cut→🔄Switching supplier→📈Price increase→

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