EU Commission Grants PCI/PMI Status to 235 Cross-Border Energy Projects to Strengthen Europe’s Energy Network

The European Commission has approved 235 cross-border energy projects as Projects of Common Interest (PCIs) and Projects of Mutual Interest (PMIs), marking the second list issued since the initiative began in 2023. These projects will be eligible for Connecting Europe Facility funding and will receive fast-tracked permitting and regulatory support to accelerate implementation.

According to the Commission, the newly selected projects will boost energy connectivity across the continent and bring the EU closer to completing the Energy Union. By enhancing interconnections within the EU and with neighbouring countries, the initiatives aim to support competitiveness, decarbonisation, and long-term energy security.

A recent Commission study estimates that Europe will require nearly €1.5 trillion in investment for electricity, hydrogen, and CO₂ infrastructure between 2024 and 2040. The new project list contributes significantly to meeting these long-term investment requirements.

Breakdown of Selected Projects

The 235 approved projects include:

• 113 electricity, offshore, and smart grid initiatives designed to support renewable energy integration
• 100 hydrogen and electrolyser projects to advance system decarbonisation
• 17 carbon transport infrastructure projects to strengthen carbon capture and storage markets
• 3 smart gas grid projects aimed at modernising and digitalising gas networks
• 2 long-standing gas interconnection projects linking Malta and Cyprus to mainland Europe

The Commission plans to support implementation through enhanced political coordination with Member States, using the Energy Union Task Force and regional High-Level Groups to guide energy infrastructure development, including cooperation with partner countries.

Infrastructure as a Cornerstone of the Energy Transition

The Commission emphasised that an efficient and interconnected energy network is central to enabling the clean energy transition and ensuring affordable energy access for households and industries. As part of this effort, the upcoming European Grids Package will outline additional measures to accelerate infrastructure development. The Energy Highways initiative, announced by President von der Leyen, will also address cross-border bottlenecks and further strengthen system resilience.

Next Steps

Following adoption, the PCI and PMI list will be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council as a Delegated Act under the TEN-E Regulation. The co-legislators will have two months—extendable by another two months—to accept or reject the list in its entirety. Once finalised, the Commission will work closely with project promoters and Member States to ensure timely and efficient implementation.

The announcement coincides with the Commission’s PCI Energy Days event, focused on practical implementation of PCIs and PMIs. Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen is participating in the discussions.