Trilogue negotiations on the Permitting Directive between the European Commission (EC), Council of the EU and European Parliament (EP) started in July. Eurelectric is committed to ensure that the Directive, as part of the Grids Package, delivers faster and more predictable permitting procedures, enabling the timely deployment of grids, RES, storage and charging infrastructure.
Our Grids for Speed study demonstrates that annual investment in distribution grids alone must double to as much
as €67 billion to keep pace with electrification and renewable deployment.
This paper sets out our targeted recommendations based on the proposed texts from either one of the three institutions, ahead of the inter-institutional negotiations to strike a good balance between accelerated grid build-out and implementable legislation that will make real-life changes.
Our 5 key messages to make this happen are:
- Grid Connection procedure
A strong framework starts with clear definitions anchored in real-world procedures . Representing both DSOs and project developers of RES, storage and charging stations, Eurelectric’s members support a uniform 3- month deadline for grid connection applications, providing project developers with certainty while allowing DSOs sufficient time for robust technical assessments. The framework should recognise relevant TSO inputs whenever necessary and ensure alternative solutions are offered only where technically feasible. Lastly, tacit approval should be removed as grid connections require explicit technical verification to safeguard system security and reliability. - Definition of anticipatory Investments
As demonstrated in Eurelectric’s Grids for Speed study, anticipatory investments are the most cost-effective way to expand distribution grids. Establishing a clear EU definition of anticipatory investments is a key link in creating an enabling regulatory framework. Allowing DSOs to invest ahead of demand, accelerating the integration of RES, storage and electrification, and lowering system costs. - Overriding Public Interest
Recognising the refurbishment, modernisation, repowering and expansion of renewable energy assets and grid infrastructure as being of overriding public interest is a key enabler for accelerating the energy transition. It ensures consistent implementation across Member States, removes regulatory barriers and enable timely delivery of projects. - Benefit-sharing & Independent Facilitator
A flexible and proportionate approach to benefit-sharing and stakeholder engagement is essential to accelerate renewable energy deployment. Allowing Member States to tailor mechanisms to local circumstances, while preserving existing frameworks and keeping independent facilitators voluntary, will ensure broad societal support without creating unnecessary barriers, costs or delays. - Simplify repowering
Applying streamlined repowering provisions across all renewable energy and storage is essential to ensure regulatory predictability and unlock the full potential of existing assets. A uniform approach will remove regulatory barriers, support efficient use of existing sites, and accelerate capacity increases while maintaining appropriate environmental safeguards.