Economics Minister Markus Achleitner (ÖVP), nature conservation officer LHStv. Manfred Haimbuchner (FPÖ) and Minister of Agriculture Michaela Langer-Weninger (ÖVP) presented on Friday. Achleitner emphasized that the top priority is still the PV expansion on roofs – the goal of 200,000 roofs by 2030 remains unchanged – as well as the use of built-up or polluted areas such as parking lots or roadside areas. Ground-mounted systems on soils with a high agricultural quality remain taboo. However, ground-mounted systems within a radius of 7.5 kilometers from substations are to be made easier. According to the state, there is a potential of 1,200 to 1,300 hectares here.
Less distance to bodies of water
In future, open-air systems may be erected on the two worst soil quality levels of agricultural land (1 and 2), dual use is possible on medium-level soils (level 3), and soils in levels 4 and 5 are reserved solely for agriculture – with two major exceptions: In the immediate vicinity around a substation one can establish dual use even on level 4 floors and in the poultry industry this is also allowed on the best floors if the panels are used as shading. A 10-metre (previously 30-metre) riparian strip must be maintained along bodies of water, and 30 instead of 50 meters for particularly valuable watercourses. In the case of forest areas, use should be made possible in individual cases.
Rules apply immediately
These regulations no longer need to be cast in laws or ordinances, but apply immediately, since the PV strategy represents the guidelines for the executing authorities. An exemption from approval for PV systems up to 1,000 kWp is still being planned – the approval limit is currently 400 kWp – as part of an upcoming ElWOG amendment (Upper Austrian Electricity Industry and Organization Act, note). And in the case of ground-mounted systems on building land, the nominal output (previously 5kW) is to be switched to a module area (in the future 50 square meters) in order to be able to keep up with ongoing technical developments. The state wants to set up its own subsidy program for PV systems in public parking lots, Achleitner outlined further plans.
The Greens see “useful approaches”, but are still missing details. Energy spokeswoman Ulrike Schwarz rated it positively that priority is given to building surfaces and sealed open spaces, but that agro-PV is also made possible. On the other hand, she is critical of “the envisaged use of forest areas for PV systems”.
Source: Nachrichten
