Brussels, 24 March 2023
Gas and hydrogen package
Ministers will seek a general approach on the gas and hydrogen package, which includes a proposal for a directive and a proposal for a regulation on common internal market rules for renewable and natural gases and hydrogen.
The proposals seek to facilitate the penetration of renewable and low-carbon gases into the energy system, enabling a shift away from natural gas and to allow for these new gases to play their role towards the goal of EU climate neutrality in 2050.
- Proposal for a directive on common rules for the internal markets in renewable and natural gases and in hydrogen
- Proposal for a regulation on the internal markets for renewable and natural gases and for hydrogen
- Fit for 55 the EU’s plan for a green transition (background information)
Gas demand reduction
EU energy ministers will seek a political agreement on a proposal to extend a Council regulation on a voluntary reduction of natural gas demand by 15% ahead of winter.
Under the proposal, the voluntary 15% gas demand reduction target would be maintained until March 2024.
- Council regulation on coordinated demand-reduction measures for gas
- Council adopts regulation on reducing gas demand by 15% this winter (press release, 5 August 2022)
- Energy prices and security of supply (background information)
Electricity market design
Ministers will hold a first policy debate on a proposal to revise the EU electricity market design.
The proposal aims to make the EU energy market more resilient and stable, to shield consumers and companies from short-term electricity price volatility, and to drive investments into renewable energies.
The purpose of the debate is to give guidance to further work on the proposal within the Council.
Other business
Under any other business, the Commission will update ministers on winter preparedness and Denmark will provide information on the nature restoration regulation.
Greece will provide information on the electricity grid.
Source – EU Council