### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union; ### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process and at the same time , reinforces economic , social and territorial cohesion and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , face the demographic transition , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union;


### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; ### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions , taking into account the demographic change; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges;


### 5. strongly supports regional policy as the prime investment instrument of the eu budget that enables economic , social and territorial cohesion , and one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights its role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as employment , green economy and innovation , and as a driving force of a more inclusive and sustainable union; ### 5. strongly supports regional policy as the prime investment instrument of the eu budget that enables economic , social and territorial cohesion , and one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights its role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as employment , family well-being , competitive and green economy and innovation , and as a driving force of a more inclusive and sustainable union;


### 7. recalls that the european green deal needs to be reflected and budgeted for in all eu actions , including in education and culture; underlines that boosting citizens’ , in particular young people’s , knowledge and empowerment will help protect ecosystems and biodiversity , and accelerate the transition to a climate-neutral europe by 2050. ### deleted


### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes; ### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; reminds that this transition requires significant structural change whereby citizens and workers will be affected in different ways and not all member states , regions and cities start the transition from the same point or have the same capacity to respond; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes;


### 9. underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; highlights , therefore , that all funding possibilities should be fully explored to successfully improve the labour market inclusion and life prospects for young people; ### 9. underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; highlights , therefore , that all funding possibilities should be fully explored to successfully improve the labour market inclusion , life prospects and family support for young people;


### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; points , in that respect , to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes such as erasmus+ , whose success in broadening education , training and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting , excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship in an inclusive manner; ### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; stresses the need to encourage the natality in europe through family-friendly policies; also points to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes such as erasmus+ , whose success in broadening education , training and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting , excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship in an inclusive manner;


### 11. stresses that sustainable and long-term solutions must be found to successfully fight structural demographic challenges , as well as mitigating brain drain in rural , remote and less developed areas of the eu; emphasises the need for financial resources to revitalise areas suffering from population decline and to provide ageing populations in europe with adequate support in terms of access to healthcare , mobility and public services; highlights the need of setting up appropriate structures to study trends and propose measures to adequately address demographic change; ### 11. stresses that sustainable and long-term solutions must be found to successfully fight structural demographic challenges , as well as mitigating brain drain in rural , remote and less developed areas of the eu; emphasises the need for financial resources to revitalise areas suffering from population decline through investments in demographic policies and to provide ageing populations in europe with adequate support in terms of access to healthcare , mobility and public services; highlights the need of setting up appropriate structures to study trends and propose measures to adequately reverse demographic change;


### 14. strongly supports strengthened eu efforts to tackle rising security threats such as terrorism , radicalisation and violent extremism within europe and neighbouring countries as well as better coordination of such programmes at eu level; ### 14. strongly supports strengthened eu efforts to tackle rising security threats such as terrorism , cybercrime and other serious and organised forms of crime , radicalisation and violent extremism within europe and neighbouring countries as well as better coordination of such programmes at eu level;


### 15. underlines the responsibility of the eu to ensure it has the adequate resources to address the geopolitical consequences of the crisis and ensure a secure and stable global environment; ### 15. underlines the responsibility of the eu to ensure it has the adequate resources to address the geopolitical consequences and opportunities of the crisis and ensure a secure and stable global environment;


### 18. expects , furthermore , a sufficient level of payment appropriations to be entered in the 2022 budget , for both the new programmes and the completion of past ones , especially in the context of higher expected needs for payments in the area of cohesion , and to ensure that the union budget provides the necessary economic stimulus; ### 18. expects , furthermore , a sufficient level of payment appropriations to be entered in the 2022 budget to enable the full reimbursement of expenditure incurred by the member states , for both the new programmes and , above all , the completion of past ones , especially in the context of higher expected needs for payments in the area of cohesion and rural development , and to ensure that the union budget provides the necessary economic stimulus , making use , where appropriate , of the budgetary flexibility instruments provided for by the mff regulation and the interinstitutional agreement.


### (8) cooperation between national supervisory authorities in the area of performance review is important to ensure smooth application of union law in this area and should thus be facilitated , namely through the establishment of an advisory board for performance review. ### (8) cooperation between national supervisory authorities in the area of performance review is important to ensure smooth application of union law in this area and should thus be facilitated , namely through the establishment of an advisory board for performance review based on the already existing bodies.


### 2. the members of the regulatory board for performance review and their alternates shall be formally appointed by the management board , on a proposal from the commission , after consultation of eurocontrol , following a public call for expression of interest. the members of the regulatory board for performance review shall be appointed on the basis of merit as well as skills and experience relevant to the air traffic management or economic regulation of network industries. in order for it to be adopted , the decision on the appointment of the members of the regulatory board for performance review requires a positive vote from the commission representative in the management board. ### 2. the members of the regulatory board for performance review and their alternates shall be formally appointed by the management board , on a proposal from the commission , after consultation of eurocontrol , following a public call for expression of interest. the members of the regulatory board for performance review shall be appointed on the basis of merit as well as skills and experience relevant to the atm/ans or economic regulation of network industries. gender and geographical balance shall be taken into account. in order for it to be adopted , the decision on the appointment of the members of the regulatory board for performance review requires a positive vote from the commission representative in the management board.


### 2. the members of the appeal board for performance review shall be formally appointed by the management board , on a proposal from the commission , following a public call for expression of interest , after consulting the regulatory board for performance review. ### 2. the members of the appeal board for performance review shall be formally appointed by the management board following a public call for expression of interest , after consulting the regulatory board for performance review.


### the verification of unit rates in preparation of the setting of those rates by the national supervisory authorities , in accordance with article 21 of [amended ses2+]; ### deleted


### 1. recognises that while the eu ambient air quality (aaq) directives have been effective in setting common eu air quality standards and facilitating the exchange of information on air quality , they have failed to effectively reduce air pollution and to curb its adverse effects; draws attention to the fact that a high number of member states do not comply with current air quality standards and have not taken enough action to improve air quality and keep exceedances to a minimum; ### 1. recognises that while overall progress has been made in improving air quality in the eu over the last decade and the eu ambient air quality (aaq) directives have been effective in setting common eu air quality standards and facilitating the exchange of information on air quality , we still have a significant problem with air pollution levels and their negative impact on health , quality of life and the environment; draws attention to the fact that a high number of member states have difficulty complying with current air quality standards and have not taken enough action to improve air quality and keep exceedances to a minimum;


### 2. believes that in order to improve the air quality in these hotspots , it is vital to move towards a more sustainable and less polluting transport system , especially in urban areas , while using all available means in the most effective way and taking into account the most recent scientific evidence; ### 2. believes that in order to improve the air quality in these hotspots , it is vital to move towards a more sustainable and less polluting transport system , especially in urban areas , encouraging technological innovation in the development of physical and non-physical infrastructures , using all available means in the most effective way and taking into account the most recent scientific evidence;


### 2. notes that aaq directives are based on air quality standards that are now 15 to 20 years old , and that some of them are much weaker than current world health organization (who) guidelines and the levels suggested by the latest scientific evidence on human health impacts; welcomes the commitment made in the european green deal to revise air quality standards and align them more closely with who standards; ### 2. notes that aaq directives are based on air quality standards that are now 15 to 20 years old , and that some of them are much weaker than current world health organization (who) guidelines and the levels suggested by the latest scientific evidence on human health impacts; notes that the commitment made in the european green deal to revise air quality standards and align them more closely with who standards will not , however , have a positive impact on air quality unless there is a substantial improvement in the implementation of the legislation;


### 3. encourages local and regional authorities to devise and implement evidence-based , strategic sustainable urban mobility plans , aiming at a coordinated planning of policies , incentives and subsidies that target the various transport sectors and modes , such as measures to encourage the roll-out of e-charging and other alternative fuels , investment in sustainable public transport , infrastructure for active , shared and zero emission transport modes and demand-related measures; ### 3. encourages local and regional authorities to devise and implement evidence-based , strategic sustainable urban mobility plans , aiming at a coordinated planning of policies , incentives and subsidies that target the various transport sectors and modes , such as measures to replace the vehicle fleet , encourage the roll-out of e-charging and other alternative fuels or propulsion systems - such as liquefied natural gas (lng) , lithium ion batteries , hydrogen , fuel cells and power from the grid - in sustainable public transport , infrastructure for active , shared and zero emission transport modes and demand-related measures;


### 3. recommends that revised air quality standards should also cover other non-regulated pollutants with relevant health impacts in the eu; highlights the eu’s ambition to lead the transition to a healthy planet , and recalls that in order to become a global leader it should lead by example by adopting , inter alia , ambitious quality standards for all air pollutants; ### 3. recommends that in its impact assessment the commission assess whether non-regulated pollutants with relevant health and quality of life impacts in the eu should be included in the future legislative reform;


### 4. reiterates the importance of a substantial modal shift from road towards less polluting forms of transportation; underlines , in this regard , the urgent need to improve railroad infrastructure , especially under the framework of the trans-european transport network , and to further ease and encourage intermodality; ### 4. reiterates the importance of a substantial modal shift from road towards less polluting forms of transportation; underlines , in this regard , the urgent need to improve railroad infrastructure , especially under the framework of the trans-european transport network , and to further ease and encourage intermodality and multimodality , bearing in mind , however , that road haulage remains indispensable and irreplaceable , especially over small (last-mile) and medium distances; notes that genuine sustainable intermodality must accordingly be combined with measures to promote more efficient and hence more environmentally-friendly road haulage;


### 4. stresses the need to guarantee that air quality is being measured by the member states in appropriate locations and at emissions sources , in order to avoid underestimation of air pollution; calls on the member states to improve their monitoring networks , and on the commission to enforce the obligations of the directive in this regard , including by providing support to member states in setting up monitoring stations , the training and hiring of experts , and ensuring greater accuracy in inspection , control and monitoring; ### 4. notes that the directive does not provide detailed guidelines on the locating of measuring stations; stresses , however , the need to guarantee that air quality is being measured by the member states in locations that ensure representative measurements for a given area , depending on whether or not it is an urbanised area; calls on the member states to improve their monitoring networks , and on the commission to enforce the obligations of the directive in this regard , including by providing support to member states in setting up monitoring stations , the training and hiring of experts , and ensuring greater accuracy in inspection , control and monitoring;


### 5. acknowledges the fact that member states have established an air quality monitoring network based on common criteria defined by the aaq directives , with more than 4 000 monitoring stations and 16 000 sampling points; points out that site location provisions involve multiple criteria and offer a degree of flexibility which can make verification more difficult , and which often generate data that does not provide information on where the highest concentrations of air pollutants occur; urges the commission to review and establish new mandatory rules for locating monitoring stations and sampling points; ### 5. acknowledges the fact that member states have established an air quality monitoring network based on common criteria defined by the aaq directives , with more than 4 000 monitoring stations and 16 000 sampling points; points out that site location provisions involve multiple criteria and offer a degree of flexibility which can make verification more difficult , and which often generate data that does not provide information on representative exposure to pollution and can lead to both over- and under-measurement; urges the commission to review and improve the guidelines on locating monitoring stations and sampling points;


### — having regard to the commission proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council establishing the framework for achieving climate neutrality and amending regulation (eu) 2018/1999 (european climate law) (com(2020)0080) , ### deleted


### — having regard to its resolution of 28 november 2019 on the climate and environment emergency1 , ### deleted


### a. whereas clean air is essential to human health and the environment , and has been identified as a global health priority in the sdgs; ### a. whereas clean air is essential to human health and quality of life , and to the environment , and has been identified as a global health priority in the sdgs;


### b. whereas air pollution is the single largest environmental health risk in europe2 , affecting all regions , socioeconomic and age groups unevenly , causing nearly 400 000 premature deaths per year , and is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases , strokes and cancer3; ### b. whereas air pollution is the single largest environmental health risk in europe2 , affecting all regions , socioeconomic and age groups unevenly; whereas , according to some assessments , it causes nearly 400 000 premature deaths per year , and is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases , strokes and cancer3 , but whereas the figures are only an approximation;


### 9. welcomes the announcement of the commission’s zero pollution action plan; emphasises that air pollution is a burden that requires a holistic approach; alerts that any new measures will be worthless if air quality is not properly prioritised and mainstreamed in all eu policies , including eu emission source legislation , such as on climate , energy , transport , industry , agriculture and waste , while ensuring better synergies between all policy areas; calls on the commission and the member states to cooperate more closely in all areas and at all levels in order to help local authorities achieve cleaner air; ### 9. welcomes the announcement of the commission’s zero pollution action plan; emphasises that air pollution is a burden that requires a holistic approach; considers that air quality should be properly prioritised in eu policies , including eu emission source legislation; notes that other eu policies , such as on climate , energy , transport , industry , agriculture and waste , should have a positive impact on air quality; calls on the commission and the member states to cooperate more closely in all areas and at all levels in order to help local authorities achieve cleaner air;


### 11. notes that air quality plans (aqps) , a key requirement of the aaq directives in cases when member states do not comply with air quality standards , are often ineffective in terms of delivering their expected results; calls on the commission to establish a set of minimum requirements and share best practices for both the drafting and implementation of aqps; ### 11. notes that air quality plans (aqps) , a key requirement of the aaq directives in cases when member states do not comply with air quality standards , are often ineffective in terms of delivering their expected results; calls on the commission to consult closely with the member states to establish a set of minimum requirements and share best practices for both the drafting and implementation of aqps;


### 12. regrets the fact that the aaq directive neither requires member states to report on the implementation of aqps to the commission nor to update them when new measures are adopted or when the progress is insufficient; calls on the commission to establish a yearly reporting obligation for the implementation of aqps; ### 12. notes that member states report annually on air quality to the european environment agency (eea); notes that commission decision 2011/850/eu imposes minimum requirements on member states concerning the establishment of air quality plans; calls , however , on the commission to establish a more transparent and responsive system for exchanging information on the implementation of aqps in the member states;


### 13. alerts that as of october 2019 , 32 infringement procedures against 20 member states remained pending; considers that persistent exceedances of air quality standards by member states indicate their lack of commitment to adopting more effective measures , and the ineffectiveness of the current enforcement procedure; urges the commission to review the current enforcement procedure for the aaq directives; ### 13. alerts that as of october 2019 , 32 infringement procedures against 20 member states remained pending; considers that persistent exceedances of air quality standards by member states indicate not only their lack of commitment to adopting more effective measures , but also that the problem of air quality is an extremely complex issue , with the solutions requiring action that interferes deeply with production methods , transport and lifestyles and often involves significant investment and unpopular decisions;


### 14. considers that public information and awareness have a critical role in addressing air pollution; draws attention to the fact that member states , regions and cities define air quality indices differently , and urges the commission and member states to establish a standardised air quality classification system applicable across the eu; ### 14. considers that public information and awareness have a critical role in addressing air pollution; calls on the commission , the member states and the relevant regional and local authorities to undertake awareness-raising campaigns on the benefits of better air and programmes to facilitate investment , both industrial and consumer , in improving air quality;


### 15. stresses that information on the possible health effects of air pollution provided by member states is scarce , unclear and not easily accessible for the public; calls on the commission and member states to launch public information campaigns on topics such as different types of air pollutants and their impact on human health or current local levels of air pollution , and to publish rankings of the best and least progress made by air quality zones; ### 15. stresses that there are positive trends in the practical implementation of member states’ obligations under the aaq directives in terms of informing the public about the state of air quality; stresses that in some cases information on the possible health effects of air pollution provided by member states can be scarce , unclear and not easily accessible for the public; calls on the commission and member states , where appropriate , to launch new or improve existing public information campaigns on topics such as different types of air pollutants and their impact on human health or current local levels of air pollution , and to take greater account of grassroots initiatives , which are increasingly highlighting local air quality problems;


### 16. urges the commission to update the aaq directives to include explicit provisions that guarantee the right of citizens to justice in line with the aarhus convention; ### deleted


### a. whereas european countries have a variety of different fleets of inland vessels , which makes inland waterway transport very convenient and useful for transporting different types and large quantities of cargo to different destinations on either large or small rivers; ### a. whereas european countries have a variety of different fleets of inland vessels , which makes inland waterway transport very convenient and useful for transporting different types and large quantities of cargo to different destinations over water;


### b. whereas ports play an important role as multimodal connecting points offering other modes of transport that can take over freight loads temporarily , and whereas it is therefore important that sea and inland ports have good connections with the hinterland; ### b. whereas an important share of eu inland waterway freight is seaport related; whereas both sea and inland ports play an important role as multimodal hubs offering connections to other modes of transport that can also take over freight loads temporarily , and whereas it is therefore important and required by ten-t guidelines that sea and inland ports are well connected with each other and have good connections with the hinterland;


### c. whereas river cruises , ferries , water taxis and water shuttles should become a cleaner option for tourism and public transport in regions and cities with accessible and navigable rivers and canals , which would make urban mobility more sustainable and effective; ### c. whereas river cruises , day trip vessels , ferries , water taxis and water shuttles should become a cleaner option for tourism and public transport in regions and cities with accessible and navigable (inland)waterways , which would make urban mobility more sustainable and effective; whereas the sustainable and smart mobility strategy should take this into account;


### 1. calls on the commission to take the initiative on green and digital leadership and to build on existing programmes such as naiades , which should inspire all stakeholders within the waterway transport sector , as well as other transport sectors , and in particular rail , to work together towards a sustainable future , while supporting the competitiveness of the sector as a whole; ### 1. calls on the commission to take the initiative on green and digital leadership and to build on existing programmes such as naiades , which should inspire all stakeholders within the waterway transport sector , as well as other transport sectors , and in particular rail , to work together towards a sustainable future , while supporting the competitiveness of the sector as a whole; emphasises that inland waterways offer an excellent transport mode for commodities stemming from new circular economy markets and that a coordination of transport , environmental and industrial policies is key to seize these opportunities;


### 2. stresses that more investment in updating river and canal infrastructure (for example , locks , bridges and interoperable deployment of digital technologies across borders) is key , while respecting the applicable environmental law; ### 2. stresses that more and regular investment in updating and upgrading the physical and digital infrastructure of (inland) waterways (for example , locks , bridges and interoperable deployment of digital technologies across borders) is key in view of the sector's performance and reliability and to prevent deterioration , while respecting the applicable environmental law;


### 3. notes that there is not a ‘one size fits all’ solution for tackling the problem of low water levels as a result of climate change; deplores , however , that the problems of the inland waterway sector , caused by the low water levels , have not been taken duly into account; ### 3. notes that there is not a ‘one size fits all’ solution for tackling the problem of low and high water levels as a result of climate change; deplores , however , that the problems of the inland waterway sector , caused by the low water levels , have not been taken duly into account; believes that member states' action plans to combat low water levels and a coordination thereof are a necessary tool;


### 4. highlights the importance of further encouraging and supporting initiatives aimed at the use of alternative fuels and propulsion methods for shipping in accordance with the principle of technological neutrality; points out , in this regard , the value of liquefied natural gas (lng) as a transitional solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in inland waterway transport; notes that the existing , technically mature vessels and distribution infrastructure now based on lng could be used for biogas and will therefore be essential in scaling up bio-lng as a marine fuel; ### 4. highlights the importance of further encouraging and supporting initiatives aimed at the use of alternative fuels and propulsion methods for inland waterway shipping in accordance with the principle of technological neutrality; points out , in this regard , that inland shipping will require a heterogeneous alternative energy mix; calls on the commission to ensure legal certainty through a coherent package in this regard (alternative fuels , ship requirements , energy taxation) and to allow for innovative pilot projects meanwhile;


### 5. highlights that low-emission and zero-emission alternatives should become more financially attractive than conventional propulsions and that this trend should be accelerated , for example by a realistic , progressively increasing blending percentage based on an impact assessment; ### 5. highlights that low-emission and zero-emission alternatives should become more financially attractive than conventional propulsions and that this trend should be accelerated , for example by a smart mix of grants and loans and a realistic , progressively increasing blending percentage based on an impact assessment;


### 7. notes that far-reaching digitalisation and data collection contributes to a cleaner environment and improved safety on board and result in more efficient routing and better communication and information exchange between ships , ports and infrastructure; stresses the need to further harmonise river information services (ris) , which would solve the problems arising from different interpretations of technical standards and the lack of comparable data , and underlines the need to prepare for interoperable data exchange with other modes of transport; ### 7. notes that far-reaching digitalisation and data collection contributes to a cleaner environment and improved safety on board and result in more efficient routing and better communication and information exchange between ships , ports and infrastructure; stresses the need to further harmonise river information services (ris) , which would solve the problems arising from different interpretations of technical standards and the lack of comparable data , and underlines the need to prepare for a common framework for interoperable data exchange between modes of transport;


### 8. stresses the importance of connecting existing digital transport policy frameworks and of making sure that transport data are available through a single point of access in order to achieve efficiency gains in waterborne freight transport; calls on the commission in this regard to come up with an eu action plan for multimodal transport data sharing , with the goal of achieving a synchromodal , connected and automated transport system by 2035 at the latest; ### 8. stresses the importance of connecting existing digital transport policy frameworks and of making sure that transport data are available through a single point of access in order to achieve efficiency gains in waterborne freight transport; calls on the commission in this regard to come up with an eu action plan for multimodal transport digital infrastructure that enables data sharing and interoperability , with the goal of achieving a synchromodal , connected and automated transport system by 2035 at the latest;


### ports: from transshipment point for fossil fuels to clean energy hub ### ports: from transshipment points for fossil fuels to clean energy and circular hubs


### 10. stresses the role of inland ports as strategic , multimodal nodes in the logistics system; stresses , therefore , that inland ports as well as sea ports should have efficient connections with a focus on connecting to the ten-t core and comprehensive corridors where possible; ### 10. stresses the role of inland ports as strategic , multimodal nodes in the logistics system; stresses , therefore , that inland ports as well as sea ports should have efficient hinterland connections with a focus on connecting to the ten-t core and comprehensive corridors where possible; supports the increasing cooperation and clustering between sea and inland ports;


### 14. stresses the importance of existing eu funding instruments for greening and digitalising our european inland waterway transport sector , such as the connecting europe facility (cef) , horizon europe and the structural and cohesion funds , and the need to mobilise them to finance investments in alternative fuels and adequate ships and infrastructure; ### 14. stresses the importance of existing eu funding instruments for greening and digitalising our european inland waterway transport sector , such as the connecting europe facility (cef) , horizon europe and the structural and cohesion funds , and the need to mobilise them to finance investments in alternative fuels and adequate ships and infrastructure; highlights furthermore the importance of using the taxonomy to enable sustainable investments in inland waterway infrastructure;


### 16. calls on the commission to set up a dedicated european inland waterway fund , including a one-stop-shop system that is easily accessible for help and assistance and has the possibility to combine projects into a single application , thus increasing the chances for funding; stresses that the fund should be financed through the reserve funds created under regulation (eu) 546/20149 , where possible complemented with national funds and contributions , and should provide for the possibility of blending with the cef and the structural and cohesion funds; ### 16. calls on the commission to set up a dedicated european inland waterway fund for greening and digitalisation , including a corridor one-stop-shop system that is easily accessible for help and assistance and has the possibility to combine projects into a single application , thus increasing the chances for funding; stresses that the fund should be financed by national funds and other both private and public contributions , including the eib , and should provide for the possibility of blending with the cef and the structural and cohesion funds; considers that the reserve funds created under regulation (eu) 546/20149 should serve as an additional source for financing this inland waterway fund;


### 1. welcomes the commission’s ambition to reach 340 gw of offshore renewable energy capacity by 2050 as a key element for the successful decarbonisation of transport and tourism; considers the massive expansion of offshore renewable energy generation , storage and distribution , and its full connection and integration into the energy grid , to represent an indispensable precondition for the widespread uptake of electric mobility and clean renewable transport fuels , such as hydrogen and ammonia in particular; calls , therefore , on the member states to swiftly and massively step up their investments in offshore renewable energy and to seize , in particular , the opportunity provided by the recovery and resilience facility (rrf) in this regard; ### 1. notes the commission’s ambition to reach 340 gw of offshore renewable energy capacity by 2050 for diversifying the energy supply; considers nuclear energy as a possible 'green' energy source that can further diversify the european energy supply and that still needs to be further researched to adequately assess its place in the green deal;


### 1. underlines that renewable energy is key for decarbonisation , and welcomes the commission’s ambition to reach 340 gw offshore renewable energy capacity by 2050; ### 1. underlines that renewable energy is one of the options that member states can choose to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 , and is therefore not indispensable for decarbonisation , and notes the commission’s ambition to reach 340 gw offshore renewable energy capacity by 2050; underlines that it is the responsibility of the member states to decide on the structure of their energy mix;


### 1. stresses that a net-zero emissions economy requires renewable energy to be deployed on an unprecedented scale; emphasises that if no further actions are taken to accelerate the deployment of offshore renewable energy (ore) , the eu will not be able to live up to its climate commitments; ### 1. stresses that a net-zero emissions economy requires non-fossil energy to be deployed on an unprecedented scale;


### 1. stresses that a net-zero emissions economy requires renewable energy to be deployed on an unprecedented scale; emphasises that if no further actions are taken to accelerate the deployment of offshore renewable energy (ore) , the eu will not be able to live up to its climate commitments; ### 1. stresses that a net-zero emissions economy requires renewable energy to be widely deployed throughout the union; emphasises that if no further actions are taken to accelerate the deployment of offshore renewable energy (ore) , the eu will not be able to live up to its climate commitments;


### 2. recalls that offshore renewable energy has an impact on fisheries and aquaculture; calls for the establishment of dialogue and cooperation with fishers at an early stage; emphasises the need to take into account local ecosystems and specificities , with an integrated management approach via marine spatial planning; welcomes the commission’s further analysis on the interactions between offshore renewable energy and other sea activities; ### 2. recalls that offshore renewable energy has a negative social and economic impact on fisheries and aquaculture; calls for the establishment of dialogue , participation and cooperation with fishers at an early stage; emphasises the need to take into account local ecosystems and specificities , with an integrated management approach via marine spatial planning; welcomes the commission’s further analysis on the interactions between offshore renewable energy and other sea activities;


### 2. highlights that the energy production targets for ore in all of eu’s sea basins , as outlined in commission communication com(2020)0741 , are at least 60 gw by 2030 and 340 gw by 2050; highlights that the competitiveness of offshore wind energy as an energy source will continue to increase and prices will continue to fall further in step with continuous development and deployment; ### 2. highlights that the energy production targets for ore in all of eu’s sea basins , as outlined in commission communication com(2020)0741 , are at least 60 gw by 2030 and 340 gw by 2050; highlights that the competitiveness of offshore wind energy as an energy source will continue to increase and prices will continue to fall further in step with continuous development and deployment , suggesting that this sector can survive without government interference;


### 3. underlines the opportunities that offshore renewable energy can offer to coastal tourism regions , both by increasing the energy-related sustainability of tourist stays , and by balancing seasonal economic effects , providing stable and predictable jobs and growth in local renewable offshore industries and small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) all year round; ### 3. notes the dangers to marine and seabed life that offshore renewable energy poses to coastal tourism regions; calls on the commission to set up impact assessments for offshore renewable energy in order to research the damage done to marine life and seabed by construction , operation and maintenance of offshore wind turbines; underlines the importance of the "do no harm" principle in this regard;


### 3. emphasises that the deployment of offshore renewable energy should also be an opportunity for other activities , through an environmental , social and economic co-benefits approach , thus benefiting fishers and local communities; ### 3. emphasises that the deployment of offshore renewable energy should presents a grave threat to fishers and local communities due to the loss of fishing grounds , thus jeopardising food security and leading to a loss of income and jobs;


### 6. underlines that outermost regions and islands are highly dependent on fossil fuel imports despite having opportunities for renewables; calls on the commission and member states to pay special attention to the development of offshore renewable energy in these territories; ### 6. underlines that outermost regions and islands are highly dependent on fossil fuel imports despite having opportunities for renewables; calls on the commission and member states to fund projects for the development of offshore renewable energy in these territories; calls for the specific nature of islands to be taken into account when developing projects eligible for funding;


### 7. emphasises that a long-term vision is necessary to assess the impact of offshore renewable energy on other activities , such as fishing , local communities and ecosystems; calls for a circular economy and life cycle approach for these projects. ### 7. emphasises that a long-term vision is necessary to assess the impact of offshore renewable energy on other activities , such as fishing , local communities and ecosystems; calls for a circular economy and life cycle approach for these projects; considers it essential to ensure an integrated approach to the life cycle processes of offshore windfarms , that decommissioning strategies envisaging alternative future use or removal of the constructions must be integrated into design and installation plans from the beginning , and that long-term sustainable impact must be considered to adhere to the principles of a circular economy.


### 7. emphasises that a long-term vision is necessary to assess the impact of offshore renewable energy on other activities , such as fishing , local communities and ecosystems; calls for a circular economy and life cycle approach for these projects. ### 7. emphasises that an all-encompassing vision is necessary to assess the impact of offshore renewable energy on other activities , such as fishing , local communities and ecosystems; calls , therefore , for a circular economy and life cycle approach for these projects and for the participation of the sectors concerned when drawing up feasibility reports;


### b. whereas the transition to a net-zero greenhouse gas (ghg) economy requires a clean energy transition that ensures sustainability , security of supply and affordability of energy; ### b. whereas the transition to a net-zero greenhouse gas (ghg) economy requires a clean energy transition that ensures sustainability , security of supply and affordability of energy , issues that must be resolved at member state level , since energy policy is a national competence;


### c. whereas the dramatic fall in renewable offshore energy prices has made it one of the cheapest sources of energy and consequently a critical element in the green transition , paving the way for a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy , and has also made it one of the most important pillars of the eu’s climate ambitions; ### c. whereas the dramatic fall in renewable offshore energy prices has made it one of the cheapest sources of energy and does consequently not need any subsidies or other politically motivated market interventions;


### c. whereas the dramatic fall in renewable offshore energy prices has made it one of the cheapest sources of energy and consequently a critical element in the green transition , paving the way for a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy , and has also made it one of the most important pillars of the eu’s climate ambitions; ### c. whereas the significant fall in renewable offshore energy prices has made it more competitively-priced sources of energy and consequently a critical element in the green transition , paving the way for a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy , and has also made it one of the most important pillars of the eu’s climate ambitions;


### (5) the evaluation of regulation (eu) no 347/2013 has clearly shown that the framework has effectively improved the integration of member states’ networks , stimulated energy trade and hence contributed to the competitiveness of the union. projects of common interest in electricity and gas have strongly contributed to security of supply. for gas , the infrastructure is now well connected and supply resilience has improved substantially since 2013. regional cooperation in regional groups and through cross-border cost allocation is an important enabler for project implementation. however , in many cases the cross-border cost allocation did not result in reducing the financing gap of the project , as intended. while the majority of permitting procedures have been shortened , in some cases the process is still long. the financial assistance from the connecting europe facility (cef) has been an important factor as grants for studies have helped projects to reduce risks in the early stages of development , while grants for works have supported projects addressing key bottlenecks that market finance could not sufficiently address. ### (5) the evaluation of regulation (eu) no 347/2013 has clearly shown that the framework has effectively improved the integration of member states’ networks , stimulated energy trade and hence contributed to the competitiveness of the union. projects of common interest in electricity and gas have strongly contributed to security of supply. regional cooperation in regional groups and through cross-border cost allocation is an important enabler for project implementation. however , in many cases the cross-border cost allocation did not result in reducing the financing gap of the project , as intended. while the majority of permitting procedures have been shortened , in some cases the process is still long. the financial assistance from the connecting europe facility (cef) has been an important factor as grants for studies have helped projects to reduce risks in the early stages of development , while grants for works have supported projects addressing key bottlenecks that market finance could not sufficiently address.


### (6) the ten-e policy is a central instrument in the development of an internal energy market and necessary to achieve the european green deal objectives. to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and higher levels of greenhouse gas emission reductions by 2030 , europe will need a more integrated energy system , relying on higher levels of electrification based on renewable sources and the decarbonisation of the gas sector. the ten-e policy can ensure that the union energy infrastructure development supports the required energy transition to climate neutrality in line with the energy efficiency first principle. ### (6) the ten-e policy is a central instrument in the development of an internal energy market and necessary to achieve the european green deal objectives. to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and higher levels of greenhouse gas emission reductions by 2030 , europe will need a more integrated energy system , relying on higher levels of electrification based on renewable sources and the decarbonisation of the gas sector. the ten-e policy can ensure that the union energy infrastructure development supports the required energy transition to climate neutrality in line with the principles of energy efficiency first and technological neutrality.


### (7) while the objectives of regulation (eu) no 347/2013 remain largely valid , the current ten-e framework does not yet fully reflect the expected changes to the energy system that will result from the new political context and in particular the upgraded 2030 targets and the 2050 climate neutrality objective under the european green deal. besides the new political context and objectives , technological development has been rapid in the past decade. that development should be taken into account in the infrastructure categories covered by this regulation , the projects of common interest selection criteria as well as the priority corridors and thematic areas. ### (7) while the objectives of regulation (eu) no 347/2013 remain largely valid , the current ten-e framework does not yet fully reflect the expected changes to the energy system that will result from the new political context and in particular the upgraded 2030 targets and the 2050 climate neutrality objective under the european green deal. besides the new political context and objectives , technological development has been rapid in the past decade. that development should be taken into account in the infrastructure categories covered by this regulation , the projects of common interest selection criteria as well as the priority corridors and thematic areas. this should be implemented having regard to technological neutrality principle and therefore not singling out apriory any specific technology on the ground other than its potential for emission reduction in the end use. at the same time the revision should not affect a member state's right to determine the conditions for exploiting its energy resources , its choice between different energy sources and the general structure of its energy supply , as laid down in article 194 (tfeu).


### (11) security of supply , as one main driver behind regulation (eu) no 347/2013 , has been significantly improved through projects of common interest. moreover , the commission’s climate target impact assessment27 expects the consumption of natural gas to be reduced significantly because its non-abated use is not compatible with carbon-neutrality. on the other hand , the consumption of biogas , renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous fuels will increase significantly towards 2050. therefore , the natural gas infrastructure no longer needs support through the ten-e policy. the planning of energy infrastructure should reflect this changing gas landscape. ### (11) security of supply , as one main driver behind regulation (eu) no 347/2013 , has been significantly improved through projects of common interest. moreover , the commission’s climate target impact assessment27 expects the consumption of natural gas to be reduced significantly because its non-abated use is not compatible with carbon-neutrality. on the other hand , the consumption of biogas , renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous fuels will increase significantly towards 2050. therefore , natural gas infrastructures will need less support through the ten-e policy.


### (11) security of supply , as one main driver behind regulation (eu) no 347/2013 , has been significantly improved through projects of common interest. moreover , the commission’s climate target impact assessment27 expects the consumption of natural gas to be reduced significantly because its non-abated use is not compatible with carbon-neutrality. on the other hand , the consumption of biogas , renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous fuels will increase significantly towards 2050. therefore , the natural gas infrastructure no longer needs support through the ten-e policy. the planning of energy infrastructure should reflect this changing gas landscape. ### (11) security of supply , as one main driver behind regulation (eu) no 347/2013 , has been significantly improved through projects of common interest. moreover , the commission’s climate target impact assessment27 expects the consumption of natural gas to be reduced significantly because its non-abated use is not compatible with carbon-neutrality. on the other hand , the consumption of biogas , renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous fuels will increase significantly towards 2050. therefore , the natural gas infrastructure no longer needs support through the ten-e policy. the planning of energy infrastructure should reflect this changing gas landscape. however , in some member states natural gas projects represent substantial potential for reduction of co2 emissions , including by facilitating transition from solid fossil fuels , in particular coal , lignite , peat and oil shale , to natural gas. the revision of regulation (eu) no 347/2013 should not negatively affect not yet completed natural gas infrastructure projects which were already included in the fourth or fifth union list of projects of common interest established pursuant to regulation (eu) no 347/2013. those projects should therefore be able to maintain their previous status and be eligible as projects of common interest to be established under this regulation.


### (11) security of supply , as one main driver behind regulation (eu) no 347/2013 , has been significantly improved through projects of common interest. moreover , the commission’s climate target impact assessment27 expects the consumption of natural gas to be reduced significantly because its non-abated use is not compatible with carbon-neutrality. on the other hand , the consumption of biogas , renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous fuels will increase significantly towards 2050. therefore , the natural gas infrastructure no longer needs support through the ten-e policy. the planning of energy infrastructure should reflect this changing gas landscape. ### (11) security of supply , as one main driver behind regulation (eu) no 347/2013 , has been significantly improved through projects of common interest. moreover , the commission’s climate target impact assessment27 expects the consumption of natural gas to be reduced significantly because its non-abated use is not compatible with carbon-neutrality. on the other hand , the consumption of biogas , renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous fuels will increase significantly towards 2050. therefore , the potential natural gas infrastructure no longer needs support through the ten-e policy. the planning of energy infrastructure should reflect this changing gas landscape. however , in some member states natural gas projects represent substantial potential for reduction of co2 emissions , including by facilitating transition from solid fossil fuels , in particular coal , lignite , peat and oil shale , to natural gas. although 80% of gas projects that are projects of common interest (gas pcis) are expected to be commissioned by 2025 , it appears that the project planning for gas pcis was too optimistic27a. more than half of gas pcis from the fourth union list of projects of common interest established pursuant to regulation (eu) no 347/2013 were located at nsi east gas priority corridor , due to the persisting need to improve security of supply standards , diversification of gas supply , competitiveness and gas market integration in central eastern and south eastern europe. the revision of regulation (eu) no 347/2013 should not negatively affect not yet completed projects at this and other priority corridors. natural gas infrastructure projects which were already included in the fourth or fifth union list of projects of common interest established pursuant to regulation (eu) no 347/2013 should therefore be able to maintain this status and be eligible for the first union list of projects of common interest to be established under this regulation.


### (13) the commission’s communication on energy system integration underlines the need for integrated energy infrastructure planning across energy carriers , infrastructures , and consumption sectors. such system integration starts from the point of departure of applying the energy efficiency first principle and taking a holistic approach beyond individual sectors. it also addresses the decarbonisation needs of the hard to abate sectors , such as parts of industry or certain modes of transport , where direct electrification is , currently , technically or economically challenging. such investments include hydrogen and electrolysers , which are progressing towards commercial large-scale deployment. the commission’s hydrogen strategy gives priority to hydrogen production from renewable electricity , which is the cleanest solution and is most compatible with the eu climate neutrality objective. in a transitional phase however , other forms of low-carbon hydrogen are needed to more rapidly replace existing hydrogen and kick-start an economy of scale. ### (13) the commission’s communication on energy system integration underlines the need for integrated energy infrastructure planning across energy carriers , infrastructures , and consumption sectors. such system integration starts from the point of departure of applying the energy efficiency first principle and taking a holistic approach beyond individual sectors. it also addresses the decarbonisation needs of the hard to abate sectors , such as parts of industry or certain modes of transport , where direct electrification is , currently , technically or economically challenging. such investments include hydrogen and electrolysers , which are progressing towards commercial large-scale deployment. the commission’s hydrogen strategy gives priority to hydrogen production from renewable electricity , which is the cleanest solution and is most compatible with the eu climate neutrality objective. in a transitional phase however , other forms of low-carbon hydrogen are needed and therefore should be equally supported within the framework of this regulation to more rapidly decarbonise existing hydrogen production focusing on a diverse range of clean technologies in terms of sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions and to kick-start an economy of scale.


### (14) moreover , the commission’s hydrogen strategy29 concluded that for the required deployment of hydrogen a large-scale infrastructure network is an important element that only the union and the single market can offer. there is currently very limited dedicated infrastructure in place to transport and trade hydrogen across borders. such should consist of a significant extent of assets converted from natural gas , complemented by new assets dedicated to hydrogen. furthermore , the hydrogen strategy sets a strategic goal to increase installed electrolyser capacity to 40 gw by 2030 in order to scale up the production of renewable hydrogen and facilitate the decarbonisation of fossil-fuel dependent sectors , such as industry or transport. therefore , the ten-e policy should include new and repurposed hydrogen transmission infrastructure and storage as well as electrolyser facilities. hydrogen transmission and storage infrastructure should also be included in the union-wide ten-year network development plan so as to allow a comprehensive and consistent assessment of their costs and benefits for the energy system , including their contribution to sector integration and decarbonisation , with the aim of creating a hydrogen backbone for the union. ### (14) moreover , the commission’s hydrogen strategy29 concluded that for the required deployment of hydrogen a large-scale infrastructure network is an important element that only the union and the single market can offer. there is currently very limited dedicated infrastructure in place to transport and trade hydrogen across borders. such should consist of a significant extent of assets converted from natural gas , complemented by new assets dedicated to hydrogen. furthermore , the hydrogen strategy sets a strategic goal to increase installed electrolyser capacity to 40 gw by 2030 in order to scale up the production of renewable hydrogen and facilitate the decarbonisation of fossil-fuel dependent sectors , such as industry or transport. therefore , the ten-e policy should include new and repurposed hydrogen transmission infrastructure , retrofitted pipelines for regional and temporal blending solutions and storage. hydrogen transmission and storage infrastructure should also be included in the union-wide ten-year network development plan so as to allow a comprehensive and consistent assessment of their costs and benefits for the energy system , including their contribution to sector integration and decarbonisation , with the aim of creating a hydrogen backbone for the union.


### (15) moreover , a new infrastructure category should be created for smart gas grids to support investments which integrate renewable and low carbon gases such as biogas , biomethane , and hydrogen , in the network and help manage a resulting more complex system , building on innovative digital technologies. ### (15) moreover , a new infrastructure category should be created for smart gas grids to support investments which integrate renewable and low carbon gases such as biogas , biomethane , and hydrogen , in the network and help manage a resulting more complex system , building on innovative digital technologies as well as technological , mechanical or engineering solutions for aiming to improve gas quality and grid management.


### (15) moreover , a new infrastructure category should be created for smart gas grids to support investments which integrate renewable and low carbon gases such as biogas , biomethane , and hydrogen , in the network and help manage a resulting more complex system , building on innovative digital technologies. ### (15) moreover , a new infrastructure category should be created for smart gas grids to support investments which integrate renewable and low carbon gases such as biogas , biomethane , and hydrogen , in the network and help manage a resulting more complex system , building on innovative digital technologies as well as technology , mechanical or engineering solutions for gas quality and grid management.


### (16) regulation (eu) no 347/2013 requires a candidate project of common interest to prove a significant contribution to at least one criterion from a set of criteria in the process for the elaboration of the union list , which may , but does not need to , include sustainability. that requirement , in line with the specific needs of the internal energy market at the time , enabled development of projects of common interest which addressed only security of supply risks even if they did not demonstrate benefits in terms of sustainability. however , given the evolution of the union infrastructure needs and the decarbonisation goals , the conclusions of the 2020 july european council , according to which “union expenditure should be consistent with paris agreement objectives and the "do no harm" principle of the european green deal , sustainability in terms of the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid or the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions , as relevant , should be assessed in order to ensure that ten-e policy is coherent with energy and climate policy objectives of the union. the sustainability of co2 transport networks is addressed by their purpose to transport carbon dioxide. ### (16) regulation (eu) no 347/2013 requires a candidate project of common interest to prove a significant contribution to at least one criterion from a set of criteria in the process for the elaboration of the union list , which may , but does not need to , include sustainability. that requirement , in line with the specific needs of the internal energy market at the time , enabled development of projects of common interest which addressed only security of supply risks even if they did not demonstrate benefits in terms of sustainability. however , given the evolution of the union infrastructure needs and the decarbonisation goals , the conclusions of the 2020 july european council , according to which “union expenditure should be consistent with paris agreement objectives and the "do no harm" principle of the european green deal , sustainability in terms of the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid or the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions , as relevant , should be assessed in order to ensure that ten-e policy is coherent with energy and climate policy objectives of the union , taking into account the specificities of each member state and the need to implement different pathways towards decarbonisation. the sustainability of co2 transport networks is addressed by their purpose to transport carbon dioxide.


### (16) regulation (eu) no 347/2013 requires a candidate project of common interest to prove a significant contribution to at least one criterion from a set of criteria in the process for the elaboration of the union list , which may , but does not need to , include sustainability. that requirement , in line with the specific needs of the internal energy market at the time , enabled development of projects of common interest which addressed only security of supply risks even if they did not demonstrate benefits in terms of sustainability. however , given the evolution of the union infrastructure needs and the decarbonisation goals , the conclusions of the 2020 july european council , according to which “union expenditure should be consistent with paris agreement objectives and the "do no harm" principle of the european green deal , sustainability in terms of the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid or the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions , as relevant , should be assessed in order to ensure that ten-e policy is coherent with energy and climate policy objectives of the union. the sustainability of co2 transport networks is addressed by their purpose to transport carbon dioxide. ### (16) regulation (eu) no 347/2013 requires a candidate project of common interest to prove a significant contribution to at least one criterion from a set of criteria in the process for the elaboration of the union list , which may , but does not need to , include sustainability. that requirement , in line with the specific needs of the internal energy market at the time , enabled development of projects of common interest which addressed only security of supply risks even if they did not demonstrate benefits in terms of sustainability. however , given the evolution of the union infrastructure needs and the decarbonisation goals , the conclusions of the 2020 july european council , according to which “union expenditure should be consistent with paris agreement objectives and the "do no harm" principle of the european green deal , sustainability in terms of the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid or the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions , as relevant , should be assessed in order to ensure that ten-e policy is coherent with energy and climate policy objectives of the union taking into account the various specificities of each member state and the needs to follow different pathways towards decarbonisation , as to leave no one behind in the end. the sustainability of co2 transport networks is addressed by their purpose to transport carbon dioxide.


### (16) regulation (eu) no 347/2013 requires a candidate project of common interest to prove a significant contribution to at least one criterion from a set of criteria in the process for the elaboration of the union list , which may , but does not need to , include sustainability. that requirement , in line with the specific needs of the internal energy market at the time , enabled development of projects of common interest which addressed only security of supply risks even if they did not demonstrate benefits in terms of sustainability. however , given the evolution of the union infrastructure needs and the decarbonisation goals , the conclusions of the 2020 july european council , according to which “union expenditure should be consistent with paris agreement objectives and the "do no harm" principle of the european green deal , sustainability in terms of the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid or the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions , as relevant , should be assessed in order to ensure that ten-e policy is coherent with energy and climate policy objectives of the union. the sustainability of co2 transport networks is addressed by their purpose to transport carbon dioxide. ### (16) regulation (eu) no 347/2013 requires a candidate project of common interest to prove a significant contribution to at least one criterion from a set of criteria in the process for the elaboration of the union list , which may , but does not need to , include sustainability. that requirement , in line with the specific needs of the internal energy market at the time , enabled development of projects of common interest which addressed only security of supply risks even if they did not demonstrate benefits in terms of sustainability. however , given the evolution of the union infrastructure needs and the decarbonisation goals , the conclusions of the 2020 july european council , according to which “union expenditure should be consistent with paris agreement objectives and the "do no harm" principle of the european green deal , sustainability in terms of the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid or the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions , as relevant , should be assessed in order to ensure that ten-e policy is coherent with energy and climate policy objectives of the union taking also into account the specificities of each member state and the needs to implement different pathways towards decarbonisation. the sustainability of co2 transport networks is addressed by their purpose to transport carbon dioxide.


### (18) furthermore , to achieve the union’s 2030 and 2050 climate and energy targets and climate neutrality objective , europe needs to significantly scale up renewable electricity generation. the existing infrastructure categories for electricity transmission and storage are crucial for the integration of the significant increase in renewable electricity generation in the power grid. in addition , that requires stepping up investment in offshore renewable energy30. coordinating long-term planning and development of offshore and onshore electricity grids should also be addressed. in particular , offshore infrastructure planning should move away from the project-by-project approach towards a coordinated comprehensive approach ensuring the sustainable development of integrated offshore grids in line with the offshore renewable potential of each sea basin , environmental protection and other uses of the sea. ### (18) furthermore , to achieve the union’s 2030 and 2050 climate and energy targets and climate neutrality objective , europe needs to significantly scale up renewable electricity generation. the existing infrastructure categories for electricity transmission and storage are crucial for the integration of the significant increase in renewable electricity generation in the power grid. in addition , that requires stepping up investment in offshore renewable energy30. coordinating long-term planning and development of offshore and onshore electricity grids should also be addressed , including by aligning the offshore planning process with the tyndp development. in particular , offshore infrastructure planning should move away from the project-by-project approach towards a coordinated comprehensive approach ensuring the sustainable development of offshore electricity networks in line with the offshore renewable potential of each sea basin , environmental protection and other uses of the sea.


### (23) following close consultations with all member states and stakeholders , the commission has identified 13 strategic trans-european energy infrastructure priorities , the implementation of which is essential for the achievement of the union’s 2030 and 2050 energy and climate policy targets. those priorities cover different geographic regions or thematic areas in the field of electricity transmission and storage , offshore grids for renewable energy , hydrogen transmission and storage , electrolysers , smart gas grids , smart electricity grids , and carbon dioxide transport. ### (23) following close consultations with all member states and stakeholders , the commission has identified 13 strategic trans-european energy infrastructure priorities , the implementation of which is essential for the achievement of the union’s 2030 and 2050 energy and climate policy targets. those priorities cover different geographic regions or thematic areas in the field of electricity transmission and storage , offshore grids for renewable energy , hydrogen transmission and storage , smart gas grids , smart electricity grids , and carbon dioxide transport.


### (33) in order to simplify and expedite the permitting process for offshore grids for renewable energy , the member states around a particular sea basin should create unique points of contact , referred to as an ‘offshore one-stop shop’ , in view of regional specificities and geography , for the for facilitating and coordinating the process of granting of permits to such projects. moreover , the establishment of a one-stop shop per sea basin for offshore grids for renewable energy should reduce complexity , increase efficiency and speed up the permitting process of offshore transmission assets often crossing many jurisdictions. ### (33) in order to simplify and expedite the permitting process for offshore electricity networks for renewable energy , the member states around a particular sea basin should create unique points of contact , referred to as an ‘offshore one-stop shop’ , in view of regional specificities and geography , for the for facilitating and coordinating the process of granting of permits to such projects. moreover , the establishment of a one-stop shop per sea basin for offshore electricity networks for renewable energy should reduce complexity , increase efficiency and speed up the permitting process of offshore transmission assets often crossing many jurisdictions.


### 1. this regulation lays down guidelines for the timely development and interoperability of the priority corridors and areas of trans-european energy infrastructure set out in annex i (‘energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas’) that contribute to the union’s 2030 climate and energy targets and the climate neutrality objective by 2050. ### 1. this regulation lays down guidelines for the timely development and interoperability of the priority corridors and areas of trans-european energy infrastructure set out in annex i (‘energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas’) that contribute to the integration of the union's energy markets , security of energy supply , affordability of energy carriers and that are also in line with the union’s 2030 climate and energy targets and the climate neutrality objective by 2050.


### 1. this regulation lays down guidelines for the timely development and interoperability of the priority corridors and areas of trans-european energy infrastructure set out in annex i (‘energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas’) that contribute to the union’s 2030 climate and energy targets and the climate neutrality objective by 2050. ### 1. this regulation lays down guidelines for the timely development and interoperability of the priority corridors and areas of trans-european energy infrastructure set out in annex i (‘energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas’) that contribute to the integration of the union energy markets , security of supply and affordability of energy carriers and that are in line with the union’s 2030 climate and energy targets and the climate neutrality objective by 2050.


### addresses the identification of projects of common interest necessary to implement priority corridors and areas falling under the energy infrastructure categories in electricity , smart gas grids , hydrogen , electrolysers , and carbon dioxide set out in annex ii (‘energy infrastructure categories’); ### addresses the identification of projects of common interest necessary to implement priority corridors and areas falling under the energy infrastructure categories in electricity , smart gas grids , hydrogen , electrolysers , carbon dioxide and natural gas projects set out in annex ii (‘energy infrastructure categories’);


### addresses the identification of projects of common interest necessary to implement priority corridors and areas falling under the energy infrastructure categories in electricity , smart gas grids , hydrogen , electrolysers , and carbon dioxide set out in annex ii (‘energy infrastructure categories’); ### addresses the identification of projects of common interest necessary to implement priority corridors and areas falling under the energy infrastructure categories in electricity , smart gas grids , hydrogen , carbon dioxide and natural gas projects set out in annex ii (‘energy infrastructure categories’);


### (9) ‘smart gas grid’ means a gas network that makes use of innovative digital solutions to integrate in a cost efficient manner a plurality of low-carbon and renewable gas sources in accordance with consumers’ needs and gas quality requirements in order to reduce the carbon footprint of the related gas consumption , enable an increased share of renewable and low-carbon gases , and create links with other energy carriers and sectors; ### (9) ‘smart gas grid’ means a gas network that makes use of innovative digital , technological , engineering or mechanical solutions in the view of integrating in a cost efficient manner a plurality of low-carbon and renewable gas sources and their blends with methane in accordance with consumers’ needs , gas quality and system's safety requirements enabling the reduction of the carbon footprint of the related gas consumption , and an increased share of renewable and low-carbon gases , , as well as creating links with other energy carriers and sectors;


### (9) ‘smart gas grid’ means a gas network that makes use of innovative digital solutions to integrate in a cost efficient manner a plurality of low-carbon and renewable gas sources in accordance with consumers’ needs and gas quality requirements in order to reduce the carbon footprint of the related gas consumption , enable an increased share of renewable and low-carbon gases , and create links with other energy carriers and sectors; ### (9) ‘smart gas grid’ means a gas network that makes use of innovative digital , technological , mechanical or engineering solutions in the view of integrating in a cost efficient manner a plurality of low-carbon and renewable gas sources and their blends with methane in accordance with consumers’ needs , gas quality and system safety requirements enabling the reduction of the carbon footprint of the related gas consumption , and an increased share of renewable and low-carbon gases , as well as creating links with other energy carriers and sectors;


### the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 20 supplementing this regulation concerning the scope and composition of the priority corridors and areas. ### deleted


### the project contributes significantly to the decarbonisation objectives of the union and those of the third country and to sustainability , including through the integration of renewable energy into the grid and the transmission of renewable generation to major consumption centres and storage sites , and; ### the project contributes significantly to the decarbonisation objectives of the union or those of the third country and to sustainability , including through the integration of renewable energy and low-carbon into the grid and the transmission of renewable and low-carbon generation to major consumption centres and storage sites , and;


### the project contributes significantly to the decarbonisation objectives of the union and those of the third country and to sustainability , including through the integration of renewable energy into the grid and the transmission of renewable generation to major consumption centres and storage sites , and; ### the project contributes significantly to the decarbonisation objectives of the union and those of the third country and to sustainability , including through the integration of renewable and low-carbon energy into the grid and the transmission of renewable and low-carbon generation to major consumption centres and storage sites , and;


### for electricity transmission and storage projects falling under the energy infrastructure categories set out in points (1)(a) , (b) , (c) and (e) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability through the integration of renewable energy into the grid and the transmission of renewable generation to major consumption centres and storage sites , and at least one of the following specific criteria: ### for electricity transmission and storage projects falling under the energy infrastructure categories set out in points (1)(a) , (b) , (c) and (e) of annex ii , the project has potential to contribute to sustainability through the integration of renewable and low-carbon energy into the grid and the transmission of renewable and low-carbon generation to major consumption centres and storage sites , and at least one of the following specific criteria:


### for electricity transmission and storage projects falling under the energy infrastructure categories set out in points (1)(a) , (b) , (c) and (e) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability through the integration of renewable energy into the grid and the transmission of renewable generation to major consumption centres and storage sites , and at least one of the following specific criteria: ### for electricity transmission and storage projects falling under the energy infrastructure categories set out in points (1)(a) , (b) , (c) and (e) of annex ii , the project is to contribute to sustainability through the integration of renewable and low-carbon energy into the grid and the transmission of renewable and low-carbon generation to major consumption centres and storage sites , and at least one of the following specific criteria:


### for hydrogen projects falling under the energy infrastructure categories set out in point (3) of annex ii the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability , including by reducing greenhouse gas emissions , by enhancing the deployment of renewable hydrogen and supporting variable renewable power generation by offering flexibility and/or storage solutions. furthermore , the project is to contribute significantly to at least one of the following specific criteria: ### for hydrogen projects falling under the energy infrastructure categories set out in point (3) of annex ii the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability , including by reducing greenhouse gas emissions , by enhancing the deployment of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and supporting variable renewable power generation by offering flexibility and/or storage solutions. furthermore , the project is to contribute significantly to at least one of the following specific criteria:


### for electrolysers falling under the category set out in point (4) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to all of the following specific criteria: ### for power-to-gas technologies falling under the category set out in point (4) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to all of the following specific criteria:


### sustainability , including by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the deployment of renewable hydrogen. ### sustainability , including by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the deployment of renewable hydrogen or hydrogen derived fuels.


### sustainability , including by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the deployment of renewable hydrogen. ### sustainability , including by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the deployment of hydrogen.


### for smart gas grid projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in point (2) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability by enabling and facilitating the integration of renewable and low-carbon gases , such as biomethane , or renewable hydrogen , into the gas distribution and transmission networks in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. furthermore , the project is to contribute significantly to at least one of the following specific criteria: ### for smart gas grid projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in point (2) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability by enabling and facilitating the integration of renewable and low-carbon gases , such as biomethane , renewable or low-carbon hydrogen , or synthetic gas and their blends with methane into the gas distribution , transmission networks and storage systems , in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. furthermore , the project is to contribute significantly to at least one of the following specific criteria:


### for smart gas grid projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in point (2) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability by enabling and facilitating the integration of renewable and low-carbon gases , such as biomethane , or renewable hydrogen , into the gas distribution and transmission networks in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. furthermore , the project is to contribute significantly to at least one of the following specific criteria: ### for smart gas grid projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in point (2) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability by enabling and facilitating the integration of renewable and low-carbon gases , such as biomethane , or renewable hydrogen or hydrogen derived fuels , into the gas distribution and transmission networks in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. furthermore , the project is to contribute significantly to at least one of the following specific criteria:


### for smart gas grid projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in point (2) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability by enabling and facilitating the integration of renewable and low-carbon gases , such as biomethane , or renewable hydrogen , into the gas distribution and transmission networks in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. furthermore , the project is to contribute significantly to at least one of the following specific criteria: ### for smart gas grid projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in point (2) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability in the view of enabling and facilitating the integration of renewable and low-carbon gases , such as biomethane , hydrogen , or synthetic gas and their blends with methane into the gas distribution and transmission networks , as well as storage systems , enabling the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. furthermore , the project is to contribute significantly to at least one of the following specific criteria:


### 10. every three years , the agency shall establish and make publicly available a set of indicators and corresponding reference values for the comparison of unit investment costs for comparable projects of the infrastructure categories included in points (1) and (3) of annex ii. those reference values may be used by the entso for electricity and the entso for gas for the cost-benefit analyses carried out for subsequent union-wide ten-year network development plans. the first of such indicators shall be published by [1 november 2022]. ### 10. every three years , the agency shall establish and make publicly available a set of indicators and corresponding reference values for the comparison of unit investment costs for comparable projects of the infrastructure categories included in points (1) and (3) of annex ii. those reference values may be used by the entso for electricity and the entso for gas for the cost-benefit analyses carried out for subsequent union-wide ten-year network development plans. the first of such indicators shall be published by [1 november 2022]. infrastructure owners , system operators and third-party promoters are obliged to provide the relevant data to the national regulatory authorities and to the agency.


### 1. by [31 july 2022] , the agency , after having conducted an extensive consultation process involving the commission and at least the organisations representing all relevant stakeholders , including the entso for electricity , the entso for gas , union dso entity , and relevant hydrogen sector stakeholders , shall publish the framework guidelines for the joint scenarios to be developed by entso for electricity and entso for gas. those guidelines shall be regularly updated as found necessary. ### 1. by [31 july 2022] , the agency , after having conducted an extensive consultation process involving the commission , the member states , and at least the organisations representing all relevant stakeholders , including the entso for electricity , the entso for gas , union dso entity , and relevant hydrogen sector stakeholders , shall publish the framework guidelines for the joint scenarios to be developed by entso for electricity and entso for gas. those guidelines shall be regularly updated as found necessary.


### 1. by [31 july 2022] , the agency , after having conducted an extensive consultation process involving the commission and at least the organisations representing all relevant stakeholders , including the entso for electricity , the entso for gas , union dso entity , and relevant hydrogen sector stakeholders , shall publish the framework guidelines for the joint scenarios to be developed by entso for electricity and entso for gas. those guidelines shall be regularly updated as found necessary. ### 1. by [31 july 2022] , the agency , after having conducted an extensive consultation process involving the commission , the member states , and at least the organisations representing all relevant stakeholders , including the entso for electricity , the entso for gas , union dso entity , and relevant hydrogen sector stakeholders , shall publish the framework guidelines for the joint scenarios to be developed by entso for electricity and entso for gas.


### the guidelines shall include the energy efficiency first principle and ensure that the underlying entso for electricity and entso for gas scenarios are fully in line with the latest medium and long-term european union decarbonisation targets and the latest available commission scenarios. ### the guidelines shall include the energy efficiency first principle and ensure that the underlying entso for electricity and entso for gas scenarios are in line with the latest medium and long-term european union decarbonisation targets.


### the guidelines shall include the energy efficiency first principle and ensure that the underlying entso for electricity and entso for gas scenarios are fully in line with the latest medium and long-term european union decarbonisation targets and the latest available commission scenarios. ### the guidelines shall specify standards for a transparent , non-discriminatory and inclusive process of elaboration of scenarios taking into account good practices in the field of network development planning that would aim to ensure that the underlying entso for electricity and entso for gas scenarios are in line with energy efficiency first principle and compatible with the latest medium and long-term european union decarbonisation targets and the latest available commission scenarios and that they reflect member states’ climate and energy policies and strategies , as well as technical and economical needs of energy infrastructure development in the union. the agency may update those guidelines where necessary to take into account new developments while avoiding administrative burden for the stakeholders and ensuring the smooth and efficient development of the joint scenarios.


### 4. the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall publish and submit the draft joint scenarios report to the agency and the commission for their opinion. ### 4. every two years the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall publish and submit the draft joint scenarios report to the agency and the commission for their opinions.


### 5. within three months from the receipt of the draft joint scenarios report together with the input received in the consultation process and a report on how it was taken into account , the agency shall submit its opinion to the entso for electricity , entso for gas and the commission. ### 5. within three months from the receipt of the draft joint scenarios report together with the input received in the consultation process and a report on how it was taken into account , the agency shall submit its opinion on compliance of the scenarios with framework guidelines to the entso for electricity and entso for gas.


### when assessing the infrastructure gaps the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall implement the energy efficiency first principle and consider with priority all relevant non-infrastructure related solutions to address the identified gaps. ### when assessing the infrastructure gaps the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall base their analysis on the scenarios established in accordance with article 12 , implement the energy efficiency first principle and consider all relevant alternatives for the optimisation of the existing transmission system that could contribute to addressing the identified gaps.


### 3. within three months following receipt of the infrastructure gaps report together with the input received in the consultation process and a report on how it was taken into account , the agency shall submit its opinion to the entso for electricity or entso for gas and the commission. ### 3. within two months following receipt of the infrastructure gaps report together with the input received in the consultation process and a report on how it was taken into account , the agency shall submit its opinion to the entso for electricity or entso for gas and the commission.


### 1. by [31 july 2022] , member states , with the support of the commission , within their specific priority offshore grid corridors , set out in point (2) of annex i , taking into account the specificities and development in each region , shall jointly define and agree to cooperate on the amount of offshore renewable generation to be deployed within each sea basin by 2050 , with intermediate steps in 2030 and 2040 , in view of their national energy and climate plans , the offshore renewable potential of each sea basin , environmental protection , climate adaptation and other uses of the sea , as well as the union’s decarbonisation targets. that agreement shall be made in writing as regards each sea basin linked to the territory of the union. ### 1. by [31 july 2022] , member states , with the support of the commission , within their specific priority offshore grid corridors , set out in point (2) of annex i , taking into account the specificities and development in each region , shall jointly define and agree to cooperate on the indicative goals for offshore renewable generation to be deployed within each sea basin by 2050 , with intermediate steps in 2030 and 2040 , in view of their national energy and climate plans , the offshore renewable potential of each sea basin , environmental protection , climate adaptation and other uses of the sea , as well as the union’s decarbonisation targets. that agreement shall be made in writing as regards each sea basin linked to the territory of the union.