Austria forms commission to explore reducing Russian gas dependency
OIL & GAS

Austria forms commission to explore reducing Russian gas dependency

Austria's energy minister has announced the establishment of a panel of experts tasked with assessing the feasibility of terminating a long-term gas supply agreement between OMV and Gazprom, aimed at reducing the country's reliance on Russian gas. Leonore Gewessler of the Greens, part of a coalition led by Chancellor Karl Nehammer's conservatives, has been vocal about ending the contract that extends until 2040.

While Nehammer's party acknowledges the need to diversify away from Russian gas, tensions within the coalition have escalated ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections on September 29. As of May, Russia accounted for 90% of Austria's net gas imports, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

OMV has granted the commission access to the contract, which has been closely guarded. Headed by retired judge Irmgard Griss from the liberal Neos party and law professor Andreas Kletecka, the commission includes economists and legal experts. "It is crucial to determine if there are legal avenues to terminate this contract," Griss emphasised during a press conference.

The commission aims to present its initial findings by autumn, with a final report expected by year-end, though timing vis-?-vis the elections remains unspecified. The far-right Freedom Party (FPO), leading in opinion polls, defends Austria's neutrality amidst accusations of pro-Russian leanings from rival parties.

(Source: ET)

Austria's energy minister has announced the establishment of a panel of experts tasked with assessing the feasibility of terminating a long-term gas supply agreement between OMV and Gazprom, aimed at reducing the country's reliance on Russian gas. Leonore Gewessler of the Greens, part of a coalition led by Chancellor Karl Nehammer's conservatives, has been vocal about ending the contract that extends until 2040. While Nehammer's party acknowledges the need to diversify away from Russian gas, tensions within the coalition have escalated ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections on September 29. As of May, Russia accounted for 90% of Austria's net gas imports, highlighting the urgency of the situation. OMV has granted the commission access to the contract, which has been closely guarded. Headed by retired judge Irmgard Griss from the liberal Neos party and law professor Andreas Kletecka, the commission includes economists and legal experts. It is crucial to determine if there are legal avenues to terminate this contract, Griss emphasised during a press conference. The commission aims to present its initial findings by autumn, with a final report expected by year-end, though timing vis-?-vis the elections remains unspecified. The far-right Freedom Party (FPO), leading in opinion polls, defends Austria's neutrality amidst accusations of pro-Russian leanings from rival parties. (Source: ET)

Next Story
Resources

Ajmera Realty launches tree drive on Environment Day

Ajmera Realty & Infra India marked World Environment Day with a large-scale tree plantation initiative—Plant-with-Purpose—across its projects in Mumbai and Bangalore. The drive was inaugurated at Ajmera Manhattan and Ajmera Greenfinity in Wadala, with senior company officials and residents in attendance. The campaign encourages residents to embrace eco-conscious, self-reliant lifestyles by growing useful plants and trees within their communities. Horticulture expert Devendra Bhekar guided residents on creating and maintaining green spaces. Ajmera Realty planted over 500 trees..

Next Story
Resources

Twaron®-reinforced tyre powers Brunel’s solar race car

Teijin Aramid’s Twaron® with circular content will debut in Bridgestone’s race tyres for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, supporting the Brunel Solar Team’s Nuna 13 car. This marks the first use of the recycled-content aramid in a high-performance race tyre. The Twaron®-reinforced belts help enhance durability, reduce rolling resistance, and maintain lightweight strength—critical for the 3,000-km solar race across Australia. Bridgestone combines this with ENLITENTM tech and other recycled inputs to maximise environmental and performance outcomes. Teijin Aramid, a..

Next Story
Building Material

Kamdhenu Paints launches new wood coating range

Kamdhenu Paints has launched a comprehensive premium wood coating range designed for both interior and exterior applications. The collection includes high-performance solutions like Kamwood 2K PU for a rich matt or high-gloss finish, Kamwood 1K PU for clarity and stain protection, and the Kamwood Melamyne system for a smooth, durable finish. Also featured are Kamwood Wood Stains, which enhance wood grains with vibrant colour, and NC Sanding Sealer for high-build grain filling. The range is supported by Kamwood Thinners for ease of application and optimal finish. Saurabh Agarwal, MD, ..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?