PECI process reaches final stage ahead of Ministerial Council decision in December

Infrastructure
5 September 2024

This week, the Projects of Energy Community Interests (PECI) process has entered its final stage as the Energy Community Secretariat assisted the PECI group in submitting the preliminary list of energy infrastructure projects to the European Commission. The European Commission will now prepare the final decision for the Energy Community’s Ministerial Council, expected in December 2024.

These strategically important PECI-labelled projects are essential for upgrading energy infrastructure, enhancing regional integration, and building a more interconnected and resilient energy network within the Energy Community.

 Key types of projects include:

  1. Electricity Transmission: New high-voltage lines and interconnectors to improve grid stability and integrate renewables.
  2. Hydrogen Infrastructure: Cross-border pipelines and storages, and LNG terminals to boost supply security and network capacity.
  3. Smart Grids: Technologies like smart meters and demand response systems to optimize energy distribution.
  4. Renewable Integration: Infrastructure connecting wind, solar, and hydropower to the grid.
  5. Energy Storage: Battery, pumped hydro, and other storage solutions for grid stability.

Last week, the Energy Community Regulatory Board (ECRB) issued its opinion on the draft PECI list, highlighting the thorough preparation and alignment with the Energy Community’s guidelines for trans-European energy infrastructure (TEN-E Regulation).

Receiving the PECI label opens the door for these projects to access potential financial support from various EU funds and instruments, providing much-needed investment to enhance energy security and achieve the Energy Community’s energy and environmental goals. The final decision in December will mark the culmination of this rigorous selection process, paving the way for impactful energy investments across the region.

After the Ministerial Council adopts the PECI list in December, the Secretariat will monitor the progress of PECI project development and implementation, reporting to the Energy Community’s Permanent High-Level Group (PHLG) and the Ministerial Council. The Secretariat will also update its web platform, PLIMA, with data on the PECI projects.

This entire selection process will be repeated in 2026, resulting in a new PECI list, mirroring the EU’s approach to Projects of Common Interest (PCI).