The Council of the European Union's Working Party on Energy will meet on 12 March 2026 to examine a revised compromise text for the Trans-European Networks for Energy (TEN-E) Regulation, according to a provisional agenda published on 3 March. The meeting will focus on the second compromise text (ST 5865/1/26 REV 1), covering Chapters I to IV and Annexes I-VII, which aims to advance inter-institutional negotiations on the regulation governing EU energy infrastructure planning and funding.
The TEN-E Regulation sets the framework for selecting Projects of Common Interest (PCIs) and Projects of Mutual Interest (PMIs), which are cross-border energy infrastructure projects eligible for EU funding and streamlined permitting. The revised compromise text seeks to reconcile positions among EU institutions on key issues such as the inclusion of certain gas projects, hydrogen infrastructure, and offshore grid development. The meeting will also address any other business as needed.
Policy orientations and trade-offs The revised text reflects ongoing efforts to balance decarbonisation goals with energy security and affordability. Key trade-offs include the extent to which natural gas projects can be supported under the regulation, with some member states advocating for a phase-out of fossil fuel infrastructure while others stress the need for transitional gas projects. The compromise also addresses the integration of offshore renewable energy grids and the criteria for selecting PCIs, which involve trade-offs between environmental sustainability, cost-efficiency, and cross-border cooperation.
Impact on stakeholders If adopted, the revised TEN-E Regulation will have significant implications for several stakeholders. EU energy project developers will face clearer rules for PCI eligibility, potentially accelerating investment in cross-border electricity and hydrogen networks. National regulatory authorities will need to align their planning processes with updated EU criteria, which may require administrative adjustments. Environmental NGOs are likely to scrutinise the treatment of gas projects, as continued support could be seen as inconsistent with climate targets. Meanwhile, EU consumers may benefit from improved energy interconnection and security of supply, but could face higher costs if transitional gas infrastructure is prioritised.
Expected institutional follow-up Following the Working Party's examination, the compromise text will be submitted to the Permanent Representatives Committee (COREPER) for endorsement, before being forwarded to the Council for formal adoption. The European Parliament will also need to approve the final text as part of the ordinary legislative procedure. The 12 March meeting is a procedural step toward finalising the regulation, which is expected to be adopted later in 2026.
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