Energy

Key cross border infrastructure projects

Projects of common interest (PCIs) are key cross border infrastructure projects that link the energy systems of EU countries.

They are intended to help the EU achieve its energy policy and climate objectives: affordable, secure and sustainable energy for all citizens, and the long-term decarbonisation of the economy in accordance with the Paris Agreement. 

This short video “What are the projects of common interest?” explains it further.

Who can become a PCI?

The project must have a significant impact on energy markets and market integration in at least two EU countries, boost competition on energy markets and help the EU's energy security by diversifying sources as well as contribute to the EU's climate and energy goals by integrating renewables.

The selection process gives preference to projects in priority corridors, as identified in the Trans-European Networks for Energy (TEN-E) policy.

PCI advantages

Projects of common interest benefit from 

  • accelerated planning and permit granting
  • a single national authority for obtaining permits
  • improved regulatory conditions
  • lower administrative costs due to streamlined environmental assessment processes
  • increased public participation via consultations
  • increased visibility to investors

They also have the right to apply for funding from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).

The PCI list

Every 2 years since 2013, the European Commission draw up a new list of projects of common interest (PCIs).

The Commission submits the list of projects to the European Parliament and to the Council. These institutions have 2 months to oppose the list, or they may ask for an extension of 2 months to finalise their position. If neither the Parliament nor the Council rejects the list, it enters into force. The Parliament and the Council cannot request amendments to the PCI list.

In April 2020, the Commission published the technical document for the 4th PCI list, which provides a technical description of all its 149 projects (100 electricity transmission and storage, 6 smart grid deployment, 32 gas, 6 oil and 5 cross-border carbon dioxide networks), information on promotes and commissioning dates. The PCI process is ongoing with a view to assess and select candidate projects for the 5th PCI list expected by end of 2021.

Consulting stakeholders and citizens

Before and during the implementation of PCIs, comprehensive impact assessments and public consultation processes are organised with a wide range of stakeholders, especially citizens and NGOs. The results of these consultations carried out for the preparation of the PCI lists are available here:  

Documents

Related links

Published: 17 October 2019
Last update: 7 April 2021