Overview
Ering-Frauenstein is a 72 MW hydroelectric power plant in Austria, operated by Verbund. It contributes to Austria's renewable energy grid with clean hydropower.
Ering-Frauenstein is a hydroelectric power plant located in Austria, with a capacity of 72 megawatts. Operated by Verbund, a major Austrian utility, the facility plays a role in the country's renewable energy portfolio. Austria's mountainous terrain and abundant rivers make hydropower a key component of its electricity generation, accounting for a significant share of the national mix. The plant operates under the EU Industrial Emissions Directive and Best Available Techniques for hydropower, which emphasize environmental sustainability and water management. While specific technical details like turbine type are not disclosed, the capacity places it in the medium-scale range for hydroelectric plants in Austria. The facility benefits from the stable regulatory framework of the European Union, which supports renewable energy development. Environmentally, Ering-Frauenstein generates electricity without direct CO2 emissions, aligning with Austria's climate goals. Its operation supports grid stability and provides clean energy to local communities. As part of Verbund's hydro fleet, it contributes to the region's energy transition and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
Environmental context
The plant's hydropower generation avoids CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions typical of fossil fuel plants. Its location in Austria, a country with strict water management regulations under the EU Water Framework Directive, ensures minimal ecological disruption. The facility's capacity of 72 MW indicates a moderate scale, with potential impacts on local aquatic ecosystems managed through environmental flow requirements and fish passage measures.
Frequently asked questions
Ering-Frauenstein is located in Austria, with coordinates approximately 48.2194° N, 13.1600° E. It is situated along a river in the Innviertel region, near the border with Germany.
The Ering-Frauenstein hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 72 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale facility in Austria's hydropower fleet.
The plant is owned and operated by Verbund, Austria's largest electricity utility and a leading European hydropower operator.
Hydroelectric plants in Austria must comply with the EU Water Framework Directive and the Industrial Emissions Directive, which require environmental impact assessments, water flow management, and measures to protect aquatic ecosystems.
As a renewable hydroelectric plant, Ering-Frauenstein supports Austria's target of 100% renewable electricity by 2030, providing clean, flexible power without direct carbon emissions.