The proposed changes to the regulation on trans-European energy networks give the European Commission and ACER a stronger role in network planning. This framework will be binding on transmission system operators for network development, increase the transparency of national choices, and facilitate investment in cross-border projects, particularly by addressing the sharing of socio-economic benefits in a more consistent manner.

In this draft ‘Network Package’, the European Commission repeatedly emphasises that the sovereignty of the European Union, its security of supply, its decarbonisation and the better integration of its electricity market in the interests of consumers are conditional on a very strong development of interconnection capacities.

In a study published last week, the think tank Ember estimates that €150 billion in investment will be needed between now and 2040 for new cross-border projects, via European Union loans and private investment.

The project for a new 2,000 MW interconnection between France and England, developed by AQUIND, is contributing to this collective effort of general interest, without any European subsidies whatsoever.