The need for greater investment in networks, storage, and interconnections—while taking into account the different conditions in each member state, particularly in the electricity sector—was highlighted by the Minister of Energy, Trade, and Industry, Michalis Damianos, upon his arrival Thursday at the Energy Council meeting in Luxembourg.
For his part, the Greek Minister of Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavrou, stated that he would brief his counterparts “on the progress made regarding the Greece–Cyprus interconnector, as well as on the next steps.”
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“We are here to discuss the EU’s current priorities: security of supply, affordable electricity, and competitiveness. It is very important that we discuss the networks; we need more investment in storage, more investment in interconnections, but we must also take into account the different circumstances of the member states, especially regarding electricity,” he emphasized.
At the same time, he added, “when it comes to the climate, we have climate priorities, but let’s be realistic about whether we can achieve these goals under the current circumstances and with respect for each country individually, at its own pace and with its own challenges”.
Mr. Damianos emphasized that the energy transition “must deliver tangible results for European citizens.” “Energy security is not a luxury; affordable electricity is a necessity. Let’s work together with the solidarity that sets us apart in the EU to deliver these results to our citizens,” he noted.
Papastavrou Briefs the Council on GSI
The Greek Minister of Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavrou, spoke about interconnections and the GSI upon arriving at the Energy Council, noting that he would brief his counterparts “on the progress made on the Greece and Cyprus, as well as on the next steps.”
“A project of strategic importance for Europe that is moving forward systematically and with determination, always in accordance with the Law of the Sea. A project that will lift the energy blockade on Cyprus,” he said, adding that “we must build an Energy Union that includes all member states and will bring tangible benefits to all citizens.”
Jørgensen Calls on Member States to Rapidly Phase Out Fossil Fuels
Dan Jørgensen, Commissioner for Energy and Housing, warned that this winter will be difficult. “On average, unfortunately, nearly 50 million Europeans cannot adequately heat their homes due to high energy prices this year. That number will likely be even higher,” he said.
He appealed to the member states: “Do everything you can to phase out fossil fuels as quickly as possible—that means more renewable energy sources, greater energy efficiency, electricity instead of gas and oil-fired boilers.” He acknowledged that there is a temptation to provide immediate subsidies for fossil fuels—which may be necessary for vulnerable groups—and urged that this be done “in a targeted and temporary manner.”
Comparing the situation to the 2022 crisis, he assessed that the EU is “in a better position because we have reduced gas consumption. We are using 18% less gas than in 2022.” He noted that 45% of gas used to come from Russia, whereas now supplies come from various suppliers.
At the same time, the crisis is more serious, as it also affects oil and oil products. ““We do not anticipate a supply security crisis; however, for citizens who cannot afford to buy fuel or heat their homes, it doesn’t matter if the supply is available—they simply cannot afford to pay,” he said.
Ireland’s Minister for Transport and the Environment, Climate Action, and Energy, Dara O’Brien, whose country currently holds the presidency of the Council of the EU, stated that the goal is to finalize the network package and return the network charges dossier to the Council in December for a general approach.
Regarding the objections raised by many member states, particularly concerning the adoption of tax matters by a qualified majority, he said that Thursday’s meeting is an opportunity for member states to articulate their positions. “There are differing positions, particularly on the tax aspect,” he noted, adding that he expects “some kind of compromise,” he said.
Looking ahead to the winter, he noted that “in terms of supply, our reserves are strong. The big challenge for households and businesses is the cost.” “The EU and member states do not have a magic wand to make price increases disappear,” he added. That is why, he said, everything possible must be done regarding network charges, infrastructure, and accelerating electrification.
