The European Commission has unveiled the European Grids Package and the Energy Highways initiative, a new strategy to upgrade the EU’s energy infrastructure, reducing energy costs and accelerating electrification.
The initiative will also ‘secure and reliable supply as Europe moves away from Russian energy imports to achieve energy independence’, the Commission said in a statement.
It will roll out a new infrastructure planning model across the European Union, accelerating permitting procedures and adjusting the manner in which costs are distributed across borders. This approach will enable the ‘best use of [the EU’s] existing energy infrastructure’, as well as bolstering grid development.
‘Commitment for an inclusive future’
“The European Grids Package is more than just a policy,” commented Teresa Ribera, executive vice-president for clean, just and competitive transition. “It’s our commitment for an inclusive future, where every part of Europe reaps the benefits of the energy revolution: cheaper clean energy, reduced dependence on imported fossil fuels, secure supply and protection against price shocks.
“It symbolises our determination to overcoming challenges through unity, delivering a true EU response to a challenge of EU importance.”
The Energy Highways initiative, meanwhile, will focus on eight urgent infrastructure projects across Europe, which were previously highlighted by President Ursula von der Leyen in her State of the Union 2025 address.
These projects were selected based on their ‘strategic importance’, as well as due to the level of political support from the EU needed for their successful implementation. The Commission said that it plans to ‘immediately’ commence fast-tracking these projects, drawing on political coordination, the Regional High-Level Groups, and the Energy Union Task Force.
Energy infrastructure
“A truly interconnected and integrated energy system is the foundation of a strong and independent Europe,” added Dan Jørgensen, commissioner for energy and housing. “To achieve it, we need an energy infrastructure network of cables, pipes and grids that is up to date, fully interconnected, and that enables clean, affordable, homegrown energy to flow freely and securely to every corner of our Union.
“This is exactly what we are proposing today: a common European energy project that supports affordable living, economic competitiveness, security and decarbonisation.” Read more here.
