EU Energy Ministers emphasize the importance of secure networks and consistent phasing out of Russian energy
EU Energy Ministers will meet in Brussels on May 30. The aim is to adopt the Council conclusions on promoting sustainable electricity network infrastructure. The ministers will also discuss the future of the REPowerEU plan and the status of the Green Deal. Finland will be represented at the meeting by Minister of Climate and the Environment Kai Mykkänen.
The ministers will also receive an update from the Commission on the status of national energy and climate plans (NECPs) and the implementation process of electricity capacity mechanisms. Hungary, which will assume the Council presidency on July 1, 2024, will present the program for its six-month term.
Council conclusions on promoting Sustainable electricity network Infrastructure
The Council is expected to adopt conclusions on promoting electricity network infrastructure. These conclusions emphasize the importance of interconnected electricity network infrastructure for the functioning of the internal market, competitiveness, and achieving climate goals. The EU's electricity network must be planned over the long term at the EU level and coordinated between countries at the transmission network level, but also at the distribution network level. Additionally, the importance of energy security is highlighted, as Europe must be prepared for new threats. The conclusions also stress the importance of funding in implementing investments.
Finland welcomes the attention not only to transmission networks but also to the development of distribution networks as a prerequisite for the clean transition. Well-maintained electricity networks are considered a competitive advantage for Finland.
Finland wants to leave sufficient flexibility for member states to develop and expedite permitting processes. The promotion of new technologies requires rapid and efficient state aid control procedures by the European Commission.
Ministers to discuss the progress of the REPowerEU Plan
In spring 2022, the Commission presented the REPowerEU plan, which aims to end the EU's energy dependency on Russia by 2027. The plan includes guidelines for stopping the import of Russian gas, oil, and coal.
The EU's energy reforms and investments must focus on improving energy infrastructure, thereby promoting the security of gas supply, including liquefied natural gas (LNG). Russia's share of EU imports of natural gas has fallen from 45% to about 15% within a couple of years.
Dependence on Russian fossil fuels is also reduced by saving energy, diversifying energy sources, and accelerating the transition to clean energy.
Topics also include the Green Deal and National Energy and Climate Plans
Ministers will exchange views on the European Green Deal and how it can help transform the EU into a modern, resource-efficient, and competitive economy.
In other matters, the Commission will provide an update on the status of national energy and climate plans (NECPs). Member states must submit their final updated plans to the Commission by the end of June. These plans outline how the member states intend to achieve the EU's energy and climate targets for 2030. Finland's final plan will be submitted to the Commission immediately after Midsummer.
Inquiries:
Riku Huttunen, Director General, Minister of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 50 431 6518
Elina Johansson, Ministerial Adviser, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 50 301 4607
Sanna Ek-Husson, Senior Specialist, Permanent Representation of Finland, Brussels, tel. +32 470 206 178