Austria’s Federal Competition Authority (BWB) has concluded its investigation into ÖBB Infrastruktur AG (ÖBB Infra) over concerns of potential antitrust violations in the country’s specialized railway electricity market.
While the probe uncovered no evidence of abuse of market dominance, ÖBB Infra has committed to a comprehensive review of its traction power system and energy supply contracts.
The investigation began in November 2023, following complaints from the Rail Control Commission and other stakeholders about possible irregularities in how traction electricity — a specialized lower-frequency power used for rail operations — is supplied in Austria. Since the liberalization of the traction power market in 2016, rail companies have been able to source electricity from alternative providers. However, the infrastructure needed to distribute this power remains under the control of ÖBB Infra.
Austria operates a unique power grid for rail transport, distinct from the general residential grid. The traction grid requires frequency conversion before power can be delivered to trains. ÖBB Infra operates and maintains this system and also acts as one of the electricity providers.
The BWB’s investigation included multiple information requests to ÖBB Infra and a market survey among rail operators. The competition authority praised ÖBB Infra’s cooperation and transparency throughout the process. In the absence of evidence suggesting anticompetitive behavior, the investigation has now been formally closed.
Despite being cleared of wrongdoing, ÖBB Infra announced plans to carry out a full evaluation of its traction power supply model and customer contracts. The company said it will involve rail operators in this review to ensure continued access to fair, flexible, and competitive energy supply options.
The move is seen as a proactive step to modernize the traction power market and reassure competitors and regulators alike that the system remains open and equitable.
Contact:
ÖBB Infrastruktur AG
Federal Competition Authority (BWB)
Rail Control Commission
