The Austrian Gas and Heat Association and the representation of interests of the Austrian electricity industry have prepared a joint position paper on sector coupling. The aim is to decarbonise the energy system but in an affordable way and while ensuring security of supply. The existing infrastructure - electricity, gas and district heating lines, storage facilities, CHP plants and power stations - should be used and intelligently coupled. According to the energy associations, however, the right conditions are needed for this to succeed. The energy market for electricity, gas and district heating must be viewed and planned holistically. All energy sources should be treated equally based on their emissions and there must be openness to technology. The reduction of regulatory barriers, support programmes for technologies such as power to gas and the avoidance of double taxation are essential requirements.

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