EU plans to upgrade energy infrastructure to lower bills and boost independence

The European Commission has proposed new initiatives to address long-standing issues in the planning and implementation of the EU’s energy infrastructure. They aim to ensure that affordable and clean energy flows more efficiently across the EU.

Grid infrastructure is the backbone of the European energy system. The new package proposes to modernise and expand it to unlock its full potential. This means removing bottlenecks and increasing interconnectivity across EU countries, which will 

• help lower energy prices
• ensure a secure and reliable energy supply
• help achieve energy independence

These initiatives represent a new approach to energy infrastructure by bringing a truly European perspective to project planning. Firstly, they will ensure Europe makes the most of its existing energy infrastructure before investing in new capacity. Secondly, they’ll speed up permitting procedures so that energy infrastructure can be developed faster across the EU, which is essential for meeting climate and energy objectives. Additionally, the proposals will ensure a fairer sharing of costs for cross-border projects. 

The legislative proposals will now go to the European Parliament and the Council for approval under the ordinary legislative procedure. The Commission will continue collaborating closely with EU countries and stakeholders to implement key cross-border energy projects.

Although progress has been made, the EU has not yet reached the level of connectivity needed to deliver a genuine energy union. Currently, several EU countries are not on track to meet the 15% interconnection target by 2030. In her 2025 State of the Union address, President von der Leyen announced that eight energy highways would address the most urgent infrastructure needs that require additional short-term support and commitment for implementation.

For more information

Press release

Questions and answers

Factsheet

Competitiveness

Affordable energy

Share this article: