CurrENT responds to the call for evidence on EU energy security framework
The current EU energy security framework remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels. As Europe moves towards full decarbonization based on electrification and renewables, major investments in electricity grids will be essential. CurrENT proposes key elements to include in the new framework.
Unlocking investments : The framework should address long-term challenges. Europe needs to build a system capable of resisting to the shifts and challenges it will face in the upcoming years. Investing in interconnection and innovative grid technologies should be a part of that. Grid investments will play a crucial role to build an affordable, cost-efficient, resilient and competitive electricity system.
Using the full potential of renewable energy : Renewable energy sources are developing fast and prices are decreasing but constraints and bottlenecks limit their potential. Unlocking these benefits requires optimising and integrating the EU electricity market through better EU-level planning, maximising efficiency, and ensuring renewables are dispatched where cheapest. It also calls for stronger interconnection and planning for a pan-European grid.
Developing the right incentives to deploy innovative grid technologies at scale : One of the reasons why innovative grid technologies are not deployed at scale while they are ready to be commercialized is that many national remuneration frameworks still favour capital-intensive projects and lower-cost optimization. A benefit-sharing approach could change that to reward operators that prioritise cheaper solutions.
Rethinking grid security in the digital age: To strengthen Europe’s energy security, we must fully use innovative grid technologies that enhance both the physical resilience and cybersecurity of the power system. Properly governed cloud deployments can provide stronger security and availability than isolated local systems, so the upcoming framework should avoid imposing outdated safety requirements that could slow deployment.
Developing forward-looking grid planning to deliver Europe’s 2050 climate goals: CurrENT calls for reference grids for 2030, 2040, and 2050, with the 2050 grid as the benchmark for full decarbonisation. Intermediate grids should follow the European Climate Law trajectory. The 2040 Ten-Year Network Development Plan must outline what’s needed for a decarbonised power sector and the electrification of heating, transport, and industry. Europe must also expand cross-border capacity and build the foundations of a pan-European grid.
Since no EU-wide model yet defines the infrastructure required, CurrENT proposes a Grid Preparedness and Innovation Strategy to drive resilience and modernization.
