Energy connectivity, electricity grids

Key points

The EESC:

• stresses that the European electricity sector must have the capacity to plan the needs of the electricity system at EU level and in partner countries, based on a common energy scenario set out by the Commission and national system operators;
• notes that the value of interconnections should be viewed either from the perspective of a benefit shared between two countries, in a bilateral approach, or in terms of seeking an overall benefit for the system, beyond the two countries hosting the interconnection. For this second case, new economic models must emerge as the result of collaboration between ACER, national regulators and grid operators;
• underlines that for interconnections to be effective, their development must be accompanied by the development of the relevant national infrastructures, especially at TSO and DSO levels. The creation of interconnection capacity must be an opportunity to foster European solidarity regarding electricity networks;
• points out that the economic optimisation of the European electricity system requires widespread smart meter installation, further additional investments in transmission and distribution networks, and making energy flow data accessible;
• prioritises the security of the electricity system, concerning climate change impacts, physical attacks, acts of sabotage, cyber risks and system balancing risk;
• Calls for the optimisation of existing infrastructure to be considered as a priority before contemplating the development of new infrastructure.