Today’s Communication on the Energy Union paves the way for faster and better development of the European Supergrid. Friends of the Supergrid (FOSG), Europe’s largest industrial alliance for a pan-European electricity grid, welcomes with enthusiasm the comprehensive Energy Union package that appears very much in line with FOSG’s vision and objectives.

Regarding the Energy Union Framework Strategy released today, Pierre Bernard, FOSG’s CEO and Chairman of the Board, states in agreement with the European Commission that the European Supergrid is indeed an essential precondition to the successful integration of renewables in the internal energy market. The Supergrid will also foster a more efficient and more secure supply of electricity across Europe.

By emphasising the need for better investment regimes for new interconnections and promoting innovative technologies, the European Commission is clearly advocating for the reinforcement of the European technological leadership and promoting the creation of job opportunities and economic growth in Europe.

FOSG nonetheless considers it important to insist on a stronger emphasis on the need for effective implementation of fast-track permitting procedures, which are essential to the timely meeting of ambitious interconnection targets. FOSG would also have liked to see practical measures to accelerate the development of electricity highways. The electricity highways will form tomorrow’s Supergrid and hence must be built now if Europe wants a decarbonised future!

Such outstanding issues will have to be addressed during the new Infrastructure Forum that was announced with today’s Energy Union package. FOSG looks forward to actively contributing to said forum and to continuing to work closely with the European Commission and key stakeholders to achieve the effective implementation of the Energy Union.