Energy Community Ministerial Council Adopts First PECI Projects to Boost Renewable Energy Integration

The Energy Community Ministerial Council marked a historic milestone today by adopting the first-ever Projects of Energy Community Interest (PECIs) during its meeting in Vienna. The session, which included the participation of Dan Jørgensen, EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, approved a comprehensive list of six projects aimed at enhancing energy infrastructure and renewable energy deployment across member countries.

This landmark decision follows the application of the Trans-European Network for Energy (TEN-E) Regulation within the Energy Community, adapted to local requirements, since late 2023. The PECIs include five electricity transmission projects and one energy storage project, involving seven Energy Community members: Ukraine, Moldova, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, and Kosovo*.

PECI Projects: A Boost to Energy Integration

The PECI status, akin to the EU’s Projects of Common Interest (PCIs), offers multiple benefits, including accelerated permitting processes, eligibility for EU financial support, and enhanced credibility for project proposals. These projects are seen as critical steps in integrating Energy Community energy markets with the EU.

The approved PECIs include:

• High and Extra-High Voltage Overhead Transmission Lines:
  • Increased capacity between Trebinja (Bosnia & Herzegovina) and Perućica (Montenegro).
  • Balti-Dnestrovsk connection (Moldova-Ukraine).
  • Trans-Balkan corridor connecting Bajina Basta (Serbia), Višegrad (Bosnia & Herzegovina), and Pljevlja (Montenegro).
  • Reconfiguration and new interconnection between Albania and Kosovo*.
  • Closing Albania’s 400kV internal ring.
• Energy Storage:
  • Development of a storage facility by DTEK in Ukraine.

Renewable Energy and Decarbonisation Plans

The Council also approved a recommendation to advance renewable energy projects across member states. Discussions highlighted the Electricity Integration Package (EIP), with ministers urging its transposition and implementation by early 2025 as a crucial step towards aligning Energy Community electricity markets with the EU.

Progress in decarbonisation efforts was also celebrated, particularly the formulation of National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) aimed at meeting 2030 targets. An updated Decarbonisation Roadmap, with the goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050, is expected to be proposed for adoption next year.

This meeting underlines the Energy Community’s commitment to sustainable energy development and its strategic alignment with the EU’s energy and climate objectives.