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The European Commission has proposed new initiatives to\u00a0address\u00a0long-standing issues in the planning and implementation of the EU\u2019s energy infrastructure. They aim to\u00a0ensure that affordable<\/strong> and clean energy<\/strong> flows\u00a0<\/strong>more efficiently across the EU<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Grid infrastructure is the backbone of the European energy system. The new package proposes to modernise<\/strong> and expand<\/strong> it to unlock its full potential. This means removing bottlenecks and increasing interconnectivity across EU countries, which\u00a0will\u00a0<\/p>\n These initiatives represent a new approach\u00a0to energy infrastructure by bringing a truly European perspective to project planning. Firstly, they will ensure Europe makes\u00a0the most of its existing energy infrastructure<\/strong>\u00a0before investing in new capacity. Secondly, they\u2019ll speed up permitting procedures<\/strong> so that energy infrastructure<\/strong> can be developed faster\u00a0<\/strong>across the EU, which is essential for meeting climate and energy objectives. Additionally, the proposals will\u00a0ensure a fairer sharing of costs<\/strong> for cross-border projects.\u00a0<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Although progress has been made, the EU has not yet reached the level of connectivity needed to deliver a genuine energy union<\/a>. Currently, several EU countries are not on track to meet the 15% interconnection target by 2030<\/strong>. In her\u00a02025 State of the Union<\/a> address, President\u00a0von der Leyen\u00a0announced that eight energy highways would address the<\/strong>\u00a0most urgent infrastructure needs<\/strong>\u00a0that require\u00a0additional short-term support and commitment for implementation.<\/p>\n For more information<\/strong><\/p>\n Press release<\/a><\/p>\n Questions & answers<\/a><\/p>\n\n