Friends of the Supergrid (FOSG)[1], Europe’s largest industrial association for an interconnected on-and offshore electricity grid, warmly welcomes the launch of the European Commission’s new European Fund for Strategic Investment (“EFSI”).

FOSG considers the EFSI will indeed contribute meaningfully to the EU’s growth and competitiveness, even if a larger package would have reinforced Europe’s seriousness about essential investments. FOSG especially appreciates that significant parts of the €315 billion Investment Package will be oriented towards much needed investments in electricity grids. This Package will certainly contribute to the effective implementation of a coherent and resilient energy policy.

Speaking from the European Electricity Regulatory Forum in Florence, FOSG’s CEO and Chairman, Pierre Bernard, commented:

 “A harmonized regulatory framework, attractive investment incentives and the effective implementation of a pan-European fast-track permitting procedure for essential infrastructures are absolute “must-haves” for the concrete and foreseeable realization of the welcomed Juncker Investment Package. These items are also at the top of FOSG’s work agenda for 2015. Moreover, various FOSG Members have initiated major infrastructure projects, all of which will be of key interests for the success of the future Energy Union and the newly launched EFSI. We look forward to working with the European Commission in concrete proposals for bringing forward the electricity infrastructure projects that Europe needs, especially for its security of supply.”