Cyprus' Energy Minister Michalis Damianos has called for increased investment in electricity networks, energy storage and interconnections across the European Union, while stressing the need to take into account the differing circumstances of member states, particularly in the electricity sector.
Speaking on Thursday ahead of a meeting of the EU Energy Council in Luxembourg, Damianos said discussions would focus on three key European priorities: energy security, affordable electricity and competitiveness.
"It is very important that we are discussing networks. We need more investment in storage, more investment in interconnections, but we must also take into account the different conditions of member states, especially regarding electricity," he said.
Call for realism on climate goals
Damianos also said climate objectives should be approached realistically, taking into consideration the ability of each member state to meet targets under current conditions.
He argued that the energy transition must deliver tangible benefits for European citizens.
"Energy security is not a luxury. Affordable electricity is essential. Let us work together with the solidarity that characterises the EU to deliver these results to our citizens."
Papastavrou to update ministers on interconnector
Greek Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou said he would brief fellow ministers on developments concerning the Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection, as well as the next steps for the project.
Papastavrou described the interconnector as a project of European strategic importance, saying it was progressing steadily and in accordance with international maritime law.
According to the Greek minister, the project will end Cyprus' energy isolation.
"We must build an Energy Union that includes all member states and delivers tangible benefits to all citizens," he said.
EU warns of difficult winter
European Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen warned that Europe faces a challenging winter due to persistently high energy costs.
"On average, almost 50 million Europeans are unable to adequately heat their homes because of high energy prices this year. Unfortunately, that number is likely to increase," he said.
Jørgensen called on member states to reduce dependence on fossil fuels as quickly as possible through greater use of renewable energy, improved energy efficiency and increased electrification.
While acknowledging that short-term subsidies for fossil fuels may be necessary to support vulnerable groups, he said any such measures should be targeted and temporary.
Better position than 2022, but challenges remain
Comparing current conditions with the energy crisis of 2022, Jørgensen said the EU was in a stronger position because gas consumption had fallen significantly.
"We use 18% less gas than we did in 2022," he said.
He also noted that while about 45% of the EU's gas once came from Russia, supplies are now sourced from a broader range of providers.
However, he argued that the current situation is more complex because it also affects oil and petroleum products.
While he said there is no expected threat to security of supply, he stressed that many citizens remain unable to afford heating or fuel even when supplies are available.
Search for compromise on EU energy package
Ireland's Minister for Transport and Environment, Climate and Communications Darragh O'Brien, whose country currently holds the rotating Council of the European Union presidency, said efforts were focused on finalising the EU's network package.
He said the file relating to network charges is expected to return to the Council in December for agreement on a general approach.
Referring to objections from several member states, particularly regarding proposals to approve certain tax-related issues through qualified majority voting, O'Brien said Thursday's discussions would allow governments to set out their positions.
"There are different views, especially on the taxation element," he said, adding that he expected "some form of compromise" to emerge.
On the winter outlook, O'Brien said energy reserves are strong from a supply perspective, but rising costs remain the major challenge facing households and businesses.
"The EU and member states do not have a magic wand to make price increases disappear," he said.
He added that efforts should focus on network charges, grid development and accelerating electrification across Europe.
Source: CNA
