In an information note published on Wednesday 11 June, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia call for the protection and security of critical energy infrastructures to remain an important EU priority for the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), which will be the subject of specific proposals from the European Commission in July (see other news).
In this note, which will be presented at the Energy Council on Monday 16 June, the three Baltic states stress that, given the highly uncertain geopolitical situation, “Russia’s attempts to damage critical energy infrastructure are likely to become more frequent and systematic”.
In their view, although the new legislative framework provides clear guidance on how to protect critical energy infrastructure and ensure security of energy supply, “the legislative framework itself will not produce the expected results if it is not supported by the EU financial investment framework”.
They therefore insist that protecting these infrastructures, including the physical, digital and cyber components, as well as the reserves of essential elements required to rapidly restore the power system, should be part of the budget priorities for the coming years.
“Only financially collaborative approach and due attention to the onshore and offshore critical energy infrastructure would ensure EU preparedness to prevent potential damages and secure EU needs”, the signatories conclude.
To see the document: https://aeur.eu/f/hap (Original version in French by Pauline Denys)