For decades, hydropower has been the backbone of Austria’s renewable electricity generation, accounting for around 51% of total output. However, recent developments illustrate a clear shift: in 2025, hydropower production declined significantly compared to 2024, largely due to unfavorable hydrological conditions. This trend underscores the vulnerability of water-dependent energy systems in the face of climate change. At the same time, Austria’s energy mix is becoming more diversified. Photovoltaics have emerged as the second-largest renewable source, increasing their share from 9.6% to 13% within just one year, followed closely by wind power at around 12%. This transformation reflects a broader strategic adjustment toward a more resilient and balanced energy portfolio. To mitigate the risks, both VERBUND and other major players such as EVN are accelerating investments in alternative renewable sources, particularly wind and solar energy.
EVN, for example, is implementing an ambitious Strategy 2030, investing approximately EUR 1 billion annually into the transformation of the energy system. Wind power expansion is a central pillar of this strategy.
Ukraine faces similar challenges but under even more complex circumstances. Between 2022 and 2025, when a significant share of thermal generation and distribution infrastructure was damaged due to attacks, hydropower units repeatedly helped prevent prolonged blackouts by rapidly covering supply deficits. As a result, Ukraine is increasingly prioritizing hybrid energy systems that combine the flexibility of hydropower with intermittent renewable sources, supported by storage solutions.
The bilateral cooperation between Austria and Ukraine is gaining strategic importance, particularly in the areas of knowledge transfer and technological exchange. Recently, representatives of Ukraine’s largest hydropower operator Ukrhydroenergo visited Austria for an in-depth professional exchange. The delegation held meetings with key institutions, including: VERBUND, TIWAG-Tiroler Wasserkraft AG, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), as well as other leading experts in the field.
Further exchanges and joint initiatives between Austrian and Ukrainian partners are already under discussion, with more developments expected in the near future.
In particular, the upcoming ReBuild Ukraine Exhibition 2026 in Warsaw on November 12-13, will bring together key stakeholders from both countries, where important energy companies, technology providers and other key players will present concrete projects and offers for rebuilding and modernizing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The event will serve as a key platform to showcase innovative approaches and foster collaborations.
