The FPÖ has sharply criticized the Gas Independence Commission presented by the Green Energy Minister. According to FPÖ energy spokesman MP Axel Kassegger, both the ÖVP and the Greens have failed to learn from past mistakes. He stressed that securing Austria's energy supply requires more than just setting up a commission. Kassegger particularly criticized the delay in expanding the gas pipelines for the west-east flows and pointed out that Ukraine does not want to extend the transit contract for Russian gas to Austria.
Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the government has known that the direction of gas flows had changed, from west to east instead of the other way around. Despite this, effective measures to secure gas supplies were not taken early on. The FPÖ is demanding that ÖVP Chancellor Nehammer play an active role in preventing Ukraine from cutting off Austria's gas supplies. It is criticised that previous measures to diversify gas imports have not been sufficient, as Russia still covers a large part of Austria's gas needs.
According to Kassegger, the delays in the expansion of the so-called "WAG Loop" and the failure to respond appropriately to geopolitical developments show the government's lack of commitment to Austria's energy security. The FPÖ is calling for concrete steps to reduce dependence on individual gas suppliers and to ensure security of supply in the long term.
In an article from www.ots.at it can be seen that the FPÖ is urging the ÖVP and the Greens to take a more decisive approach to energy policy in order not to endanger national security. The critical attitude towards the Gas Independence Commission reflects the concerns of the FPÖ and shows the need for a comprehensive strategy to secure the gas supply in Austria.
Source: die-nachrichten.at
