EU agency proposes extensive revision of legal framework for electricity grids

The European Union Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) has proposed ways to improve and simplify the legal framework for European grids. The document, which follows the European Commission’s forthcoming package of measures, highlights problems in scenario planning, the assessment of infrastructure needs and the selection of projects of common interest. At the same time, the Czech government has launched the first call under the ELEGRID programme, intended to support the modernisation and strengthening of the resilience of the Czech electricity system.

The document published by ACER reflects the forthcoming European Grids Package. The European Commission intends to publish it by the end of this year. In advance, it therefore invited experts to submit input through open consultations on the related legal framework.

ACER’s recommendations primarily concern grid development itself rather than permitting processes or financing. The revision of the TEN-E Regulation (EU/2022/869) is structured around four key thematic areas: the development of grid scenarios, the identification of infrastructure needs, the selection process for projects of common European interest, and the assessment of investment applications and cost-sharing mechanisms. This is not a legally binding document, but rather an ACER opinion addressed to EU lawmakers and other stakeholders.