More than 30 percent of Europe’s low‑voltage distribution grids are already over 40 years old, and that share could rise to 90 percent by 2050 without urgent modernisation. Failing to expand and digitalise the network risks higher energy costs and lost emissions reductions.
Kristian Ruby: “We must accelerate electrification in all sectors”
Ahead of the EU Grids Package, expected on 10 December, Eurelectric has outlined key policy and regulatory actions to ensure Europe’s power grids can keep pace with electrification.
A clear and predictable regulatory framework to attract private investment and ensure competitive returns for grid projects.
Simplified permitting and procurement procedures, with a maximum duration of six months, to accelerate grid deployment.
- Dedicated EU funding for distribution network upgrades within the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).
- Recognition of resilience and cybersecurity costs in regulation to protect critical energy infrastructure.
- Practical, locally grounded planning that reflects the diversity of distribution networks and feeds effectively into European‑level planning without added bureaucracy.
Dutch grid resilience offers lessons for Europe
Eurelectric notes that distribution grids connect around 70 percent of new renewable generation and most electrified end‑uses in households, businesses and industry. Without decisive action, they could become a major bottleneck, preventing the connection of up to 190 million heat pumps, 120 million EVs and 1,220 GW of solar‑PV capacity across Europe by 2050.
The association calls on EU policymakers to modernise outdated frameworks and support “grids that grow as fast as Europe’s ambitions.” (hcn)
