Spanish minister for ecological transition, Teresa Ribera, is being considered for a key role in the next European Commission and believes that expanding Europe’s electricity grid is crucial for the transition away from fossil fuels. She emphasizes the need for massive investments in grid expansion, stating that the capacity needs to almost double in a short amount of time. Ribera also highlights the importance of meeting and surpassing targets for cross-border transmission lines in order to balance the increasing share of variable renewable power output.
Ribera’s vision aligns with the Green Industrial Deal that European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen aims to prioritize in her second administration. With the EU committed to achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century and expected to propose an interim target of 90% greenhouse gas reduction by 2040, electrification of transport, heating, and industries is deemed essential. The electricity industry estimates that significant annual investments will be required to strengthen local distribution grids alone.
In light of the substantial costs involved in expanding the electricity grid throughout Europe, Ribera acknowledges that public funds alone cannot cover the expenses. She also points out that expecting electricity consumers to bear the costs in the short-term would be detrimental to the economy and households. Instead, she advocates for finding financial solutions to bridge the gap between paying for grid infrastructure and the return on investment through lower energy prices.
Ribera emphasizes the need for the EU to take a more active role in coordinating and funding the expansion of Europe’s electricity grid, framing it as a European project rather than a series of national initiatives. By working together to build a more interconnected grid, member states can facilitate the transfer of large volumes of power across Europe, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
As part of her proposed role within the European Commission, Ribera envisions a focus on modernizing Europe from economic, industrial, and climate perspectives. This aligns with von der Leyen’s goal of advancing a comprehensive Green Industrial Deal to drive the EU towards its ambitious environmental targets. By prioritizing the expansion and modernization of Europe’s electricity grid, Ribera and other leaders aim to drive the transition towards cleaner energy sources and reduce the continent’s dependence on fossil fuels.
In conclusion, Teresa Ribera advocates for a significant investment in expanding and modernizing Europe’s electricity grid as a core European project for the second von der Leyen Commission. This ambitious initiative is seen as essential for the transition away from fossil fuels and towards a more sustainable energy system. By working together to strengthen cross-border transmission lines and facilitate the transfer of renewable power, the EU can build a more interconnected and resilient grid, ultimately contributing to the continent’s climate goals and fostering a common European project.
