The European Parliament has endorsed a set of proposals aimed at modernising the European Union’s electricity grid, strengthening cross-border connections, and accelerating the rollout of renewable energy.
The resolution, adopted on June 19, supports the European Commission’s Grid Action Plan and calls for streamlined permitting processes, clearer investment rules, and enhanced coordination between member states and sectors.
Lawmakers said expanding and upgrading electricity infrastructure is critical to avoid renewable energy curtailment and to minimise the risk of widespread outages. In April, a large-scale blackout affected parts of the Iberian Peninsula and France, raising concerns over grid resilience.
“The Iberian blackout was a painful demonstration of how vulnerable our grids remain,” said lead rapporteur Anna Sturgkh. “It was a reminder that Europe’s energy transition will fail unless we invest just as strategically in infrastructure as in renewables.”
The motion passed with 418 votes in favour, 112 against, and 45 abstentions.
MEPs also urged the European Commission to improve access to EU and national funding, particularly through a reinforced Connecting Europe Facility for Energy in the bloc’s next multi-annual budget.
The Commission is expected to release a comprehensive Grids Package before the end of 2025, following initial guidance issued on June 2. It estimates that €584 billion will be required by 2030 to modernise the EU’s electricity system, including upgrades to distribution networks and cross-border interconnectors.
“Thanks to cross-border interconnectors, France was able to step in immediately,” Sturgkh added. “Now the Commission must act decisively to prioritise planning and coordination on grids and storage – or we will keep lurching from one crisis to the next.
