Brussels, 4 November 2024
The fifth edition of the Energy Projects of Common Interest (PCI) Days starts today in Brussels. The two-day event organised by the Commission brings together key stakeholders to discuss how best to achieve the EU’s 2030 climate and energy targets, with a main focus on the implementation of Projects of Common Interest and Projects of Mutual Interest (PIMs), as well as on how to accelerate the modernisation and construction of critical infrastructure, such as that targeted by the EU Network Action Plan launched last year.
Later today, Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson will open the event with a speech, which will be available here. This will then be followed by a ceremony to sign grant agreements for carbon dioxide transport projects supported by the Connecting Europe Facility.
Tomorrow, discussions will focus on preparing for the future, with topics such as accelerating the construction of large-scale energy infrastructure, cross-border cooperation practices, and responding to supply issues.
The Energy CIP Days were inaugurated by the Commission in 2019 with the aim of showing and discussing the practical implementation of CIPs across Europe. They allow project developers to share their expertise and best practices in using innovative technological solutions, working with local authorities and securing financing to build sustainable and environmentally friendly energy infrastructure.
You can follow today’s and tomorrow‘s event online.
Opening Speech by EU Commissioner Kadri Simson at the 5th PCI Energy Days
“Check against delivery”
Thank you, Ditte,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am delighted to be here today with you to mark the 5th edition of the PCI Energy Days!
The first edition, five years ago, took place on the very first day of my term as EU Energy Commissioner. Since then, year after year, this event has remained an important milestone. PCI and PMI projects symbolize what Europe stands for: cooperation, concrete results, and real investments.
Today, we celebrate five incredible years of progress—progress achieved despite many challenges.
At the beginning of this mandate, our world was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Soon after, Russia invaded our neighbor and ally, Ukraine, sparking a global energy crisis as energy prices soared. But Europe responded with the REPowerEU Strategy. We protected EU citizens and businesses from energy shortages, stood by Ukraine, and will continue to do so until victory and the withdrawal of Russian troops.
We reduced gas consumption by 18% and accelerated the green transition, promoting massive investments in renewable energy. Today, more electricity is produced from renewable sources than from fossil fuels.
Through all the adversity, the EU remained committed to the clean energy transition agenda. It was our guiding compass.
For my portfolio, this meant pursuing the radical transformation of our energy system with even greater ambition and determination.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
At the heart of this transformation is the development of adequate energy infrastructure and a well-targeted investment plan. Our energy transition requires reliable, secure, and future-ready infrastructure. Over my mandate, we have worked to align our energy infrastructure with the evolving EU energy landscape.
New networks are being built to support the growth in clean energy imports and exports, ensuring that new clean power sources can seamlessly integrate into our energy system. The revised TEN-E Regulation signifies a decisive shift from fossil fuels to future-proof infrastructure.
Now, we invest in electricity and hydrogen networks to power our clean energy future. This progress is driven by the EU’s flagship funding instrument, the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. Over the past decade, it has supported over 130 cross-border infrastructure projects, providing essential funding for studies and works.
Some Projects of Common Interest (PCI) have played a crucial role in ensuring energy security, especially in recent years. For instance, the Baltic Pipe project, connecting Norway to Poland via Denmark, has diversified energy supplies, reducing reliance on imported gas. The GIPL project between Lithuania and Poland has boosted regional energy resilience, while the Greece-Bulgaria interconnector has strengthened energy ties.
Achieving Baltic synchronization by 2025 is also critical—it is a crucial step to help the region fully integrate into the EU’s internal energy market.
Other projects, like the Celtic Interconnector, Biscay Bay, and Great Sea Interconnector, are key to enhancing energy security and advancing the EU’s energy transition.
This year’s CEF call has seen an overwhelming response. Over 70 proposals were submitted, seeking nearly EUR 4 billion in funding, nearly five times the foreseen budget of EUR 850 million!
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Looking to the future, we cannot be complacent.
First, energy infrastructure projects require significant investment, as the Draghi and Letta reports confirm. We must fill this investment gap and continue the success of the CEF program beyond the current Multiannual Financial Framework. I have repeatedly advocated for an increased CEF budget for energy projects, and I hope the next Commission will carry this forward.
Second, we need to make our grids smarter, connect more offshore wind installations, and build infrastructure for hydrogen and electrolyzer projects. Additionally, we need to transport captured CO₂ from hard-to-abate sectors for storage or reuse.
I am pleased that today we celebrate the signing of Grant Agreements for five CO₂ Projects of Common Interest.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The story of PCI and PMI projects is a European success story—a testament to how the EU delivers a more integrated, secure, and sustainable energy future for all Europeans.
I wish you all a successful conference.
Thank you for your attention.
And now, I would like to invite to the stage Member of the European Parliament, Tsvetelina Penkova.
Source – EU Commission