### leading and supporting global efforts , partnerships and alliances to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls ; this includes physical , psychological , sexual , economic and other types of violence and discrimination , including exclusion that women suffer in the different areas of their private and public lives ; ### supporting local , national , regional initiatives and leading and supporting global efforts , partnerships and alliances for the rights of women as set out in the un convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and the optional protocol thereto , as well as measures to combat and to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls ; this includes physical , psychological , sexual , economic and other types of violence and discrimination , including exclusion that women suffer in the different areas of their private and public lives ; address the root causes of gender inequalities as a means of supporting conflict prevention and peacebuilding ; promoting the empowerment of women , including in their roles as development actors and peace - builders


### the implementation of this regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including preserving peace , preventing conflicts , strengthening international security , fighting root causes of irregular migration and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards , for the rule of law , for international law and for human rights . __________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 . ### the implementation of this regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s values in all its aspects and thus contributing to the eradication of poverty , fighting inequality in all its forms , in particular gender inequalities , preserving peace , preventing conflicts by involving a range of experts and stakeholders in peace building negotiations , including women and civil society , strengthening international security and safety , fighting root causes of migration and displacement and assisting populations , countries and regions facing enhanced migratory pressure and confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting a fair , human rights compliant and gender - just trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies and promoting just and inclusive societies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards , for the rule of law , for international law and for human rights . __________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 .


### supporting a thriving civil society and its role in reform processes and democratic transformations , and promoting an enabling space for civil society and citizens ' engagement in political decision - making ; ### supporting gender equality , and a thriving civil society , strengthening its role in political transitions , reform processes and democratic transformations , and promoting an enabling space for civil society and citizens ' engagement , with an gender equal participation and representation in political life and in decision - making ;


### strengthening democracy and democratic processes , governance and oversight , including transparent and credible electoral processes ; ### strengthening democracy and democratic processes , governance and oversight , including transparent , peaceful and credible electoral processes ;


### the implementation of this regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including preserving peace , preventing conflicts , strengthening international security , fighting root causes of irregular migration and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards , for the rule of law , for international law and for human rights . _________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 . ### the implementation of this regulation should be based on the policy framework for eu development cooperation as laid down in the lisbon treaty , the 2030 agenda for sustainable development and the paris climate agreement . it should also be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including contributing to the eradication of poverty , fighting inequalities in all its forms , preserving peace , preventing conflicts , strengthening international security , fighting root causes of forced displacement and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting a fair , sustainable , human rights compliant and gender - fair trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and inclusive technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote high social and environmental standards , the rule of law , international law and human rights . _________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 .


### without prejudice to paragraph 4 , actions shall be based , to the extent possible , on a dialogue between the union , the member states and the partner countries concerned , including national and local authorities , involving civil society , national and local parliaments and other stakeholders , in order to enhance ownership of the process and to encourage support for national and regional strategies ; ### without prejudice to paragraph 4 , actions shall be based on an inclusive dialogue between the institutions of the union , the member states , and the partner countries concerned , including national and local authorities , involving civil society organisations , regional , national and local parliaments and other stakeholders in order to enhance democratic ownership of the process and to encourage support for national and regional strategies ;


### the general objective of the programme ' neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument ' should be to uphold and promote the union ' s values and interests worldwide in order to pursue the objectives and principles of the union ' s external action , as laid down in article 3 , articles 8 and 21 of the treaty on european union . ### the general objective of the programme ' neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument ' should be to promote sustainable development , contribute to the eradication of poverty , fight inequality in all its forms , and to uphold and promote the union ' s values and interests worldwide in order to pursue the objectives and principles of the union ' s external action , as laid down in article 3 , articles 8 and 21 of the treaty on european union .


### the implementation of this regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including preserving peace , preventing conflicts , strengthening international security , fighting root causes of irregular migration and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards , for the rule of law , for international law and for human rights . _________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 . ### the implementation of this regulation should be guided by the policy framework for eu development cooperation as laid down in the lisbon treaty , the 2030 agenda on sustainable development , and the paris climate agreement . it should also be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including contributing to the eradication of poverty , fighting inequality in all its forms , in particular gender inequalities preserving peace , preventing conflicts , strengthening international security , fighting root causes of irregular migration and forced displacement and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting a fair , human rights compliant and gender - just trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , high social and environmental standards , the rule of law , international law and human rights . _________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 .


### promoting joint global efforts for inclusive and equitable quality education and training at all levels , including in emergency and crisis situations ; ### promoting joint global efforts for inclusive and equitable quality education and training at all levels , including early childhood development , with a focus on emergency and crisis situations and with a particular priority on strengthening public education systems ;


### enhancing efforts for the adoption of policies and appropriate investment to promote women and young people’s rights , to facilitate their engagement in social , civic and economic life , and to ensure their full contribution to inclusive growth and sustainable development ; ### enhancing efforts for the adoption of policies and appropriate investment to promote , protect and fulfil women , and young people and children’s rights , to facilitate their engagement and meaningful participation in social , civic and economic life , and to ensure their full contribution to inclusive growth and sustainable development ;


### supporting regional and international initiatives contributing to security , stability and peace ; ### supporting local , regional and international initiatives contributing to security and safety , stability and peace ;


### in addition , the eu guarantee shall be granted for support of dedicated investment platforms and national promotional banks , via the eib , that invest in operations meeting the requirements of this regulation . in that case , the steering board shall specify policies regarding eligible investment platforms . ### in addition , the eu guarantee shall be granted for support of dedicated investment platforms and national and regional promotional banks , via the eib , that invest in operations meeting the requirements of this regulation . in that case , the steering board shall specify policies regarding eligible investment platforms , which shall involve the competent public authorities , relevant social and economic partners and representatives of civil society .


### the efsi agreement shall provide that the efsi shall be governed by a steering board , which shall determine the strategic orientation , the strategic asset allocation and operating policies and procedures , including the investment policy of projects that efsi can support and the risk profile of the efsi , in conformity with the objectives under article 5 . the steering board shall elect one of its members to be chairperson . ### the efsi agreement shall provide that the efsi shall be governed by a steering board , which shall determine the strategic orientation , the strategic asset allocation and operating policies and procedures , including the investment policy of projects that efsi can support and the risk profile of the efsi , in conformity with the objectives under article 5 . the steering board , consisting of a representative of the eib , another of the european commission and one for each member state , shall elect one of its members to be chairperson and is subject to the binding approval of the european parliament .


### distributors shall ensure that any visual advertisement for a specific type of tyre , including on the internet , shows the label . ### distributors shall ensure that any technical promotional material for a specific type of tyre , including on the internet , shows the label .


### suppliers shall ensure that any visual advertisement for a specific type of tyre , including on the internet , shows the label . ### suppliers shall ensure that any technical promotional material for a specific type of tyre , including on the internet , shows the label . suppliers may make the label available for display in connection with online visual advertisement for a specific type of tyre . the label may be displayed using a nested display . in this case shall be displayed after a mouse click , mouse roll - over , tactile screen expansion or similar techniques .


### where appropriate , when preparing delegated acts , the commission shall test the design and content of the labels for specific product groups with representative groups of union customers to ensure their clear understanding of the labels . ### when preparing delegated acts , the commission shall test the design and content of the labels for tyres with representative groups of union customers to ensure their clear understanding of the labels .


### in order to provide end - users with information on the performance of tyres specifically designed for snow and ice conditions , it is appropriate to require the inclusion on the label of information requirements on snow and ice tyres . ### in order to improve road safety in colder climate in the eu and to provide end - users with information on the performance of tyres specifically designed for snow and ice conditions , it is appropriate to require the inclusion on the label of information requirements on snow and ice tyres . information in the form of a scale , similarly to wet grip information , should be provided to encourage end - users to purchase tyres with high snow / ice grip performance .


### cluster ' digital and industry ' : reinforcing capacities and securing europe ' s sovereignty in key enabling technologies for digitisation and production , and in space technology , to build a competitive , digital , low - carbon and circular industry ; ensure a sustainable supply of raw materials ; and provide the basis for advances and innovation in all global societal challenges . ### ' industry in a digital world ' : reinforcing capacities and securing a leading role for europe in key enabling technologies for production and in space technology to build a competitive low - carbon and circular industry ; ensure a sustainable supply of raw materials ; provide the basis for advances and success in meeting global societal challenges .


### the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' should be established through clusters of research and innovation activities , in order to maximise integration across the respective work areas while securing high and sustainable levels of impact in relation to the resources that are expended . it will encourage cross - disciplinary , cross - sectoral , cross - policy and cross - border collaboration in pursuit of the un sdgs and the competitiveness of the union ' s industries therein . ### the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' should be established through clusters of research and innovation activities , in order to maximise integration across the respective work areas while securing high and sustainable levels of impact in relation to the resources that are expended . it will encourage cross - disciplinary , cross - sectoral , cross - policy and cross - border collaboration in pursuit of the un sdgs and the competitiveness of the union .


### member states shall ensure that newly built residential buildings and those undergoing major renovations , with more than ten parking spaces , include the pre - cabling to enable the installation of recharging points for electric vehicles for every parking space . ### member states shall ensure that in newly built residential buildings and in those undergoing major renovations , with more than ten parking spaces , every parking space is equipped with conduits enabling the installation of smart recharging points which fulfil the meaning of directive 2014 / 94 / eu , allowing the transfer of electricity to an electric vehicle with a power of at least 7kw .


### technical building system means technical equipment for space heating , space cooling , ventilation , domestic hot water , built - in lighting , building automation and control , on - site electricity generation , on - site infrastructure for electro - mobility , or a combination of such systems , including those using energy from renewable sources , of a building or building unit ; ; ### technical building system means technical equipment for space heating , space cooling , ventilation , and any other equipment for controlling indoor environmental conditions , domestic hot water , built - in lighting , building automation and control , on - site electricity generation , on - site infrastructure for electro - mobility , including recharging points as defined by directive 2014 / 94 / ue , or a combination of such systems , including those using energy from renewable sources , of a building or building unit ;


### innovation and new technology also make it possible for buildings to support the overall decarbonisation of the economy . for example , buildings can leverage the development of the infrastructure necessary for the smart charging of electric vehicles also provide a basis for member states , if they choose to , to use car batteries as a source of power . to reflect this aim , the definition of technical building systems should be extended . ### innovation and new technology also make it possible for buildings to support the overall decarbonisation of the economy . for example , buildings should leverage the development of the infrastructure necessary for the smart charging of electric vehicles also provide a basis for member states , if they choose to , to use car batteries as a source of power . to reflect this aim , the definition of technical building systems should be extended . member states should recognize the right to develop the infrastructure and the recharging points for electric vehicles to the owners and the tenants of all types of buildings . member states should also simplify authorization procedures on electro - mobility in order to maximize the contribution of this sector to the overall decarbonisation of the economy .


### the effective enforcement of the rules governing the internal market for services set out in directive 2006 / 123 / ec should be enhanced by improving the existing notification procedure established by that directive in respect of national authorisation schemes and certain requirements concerning both access to self - employed activities and their exercise . the prevention of the adoption of national provisions establishing requirements and authorisation schemes that would be contrary to directive 2006 / 123 / ec should be facilitated . this directive is without prejudice to the commission ' s powers under the treaties and the member states ' obligation to comply with the provisions of union law . ### the effective enforcement of the rules governing the internal market for services set out in directive 2006 / 123 / ec should be enhanced by improving the existing notification procedure established by that directive in respect of national authorisation schemes and certain requirements concerning both access to self - employed activities and their exercise . this directive lays down a procedure enabling member states and the commission to work together to avoid discrimination on the basis of citizenship or residency , and unjustified or disproportionate requirements . this does not restrict in any manner the sovereign right of member states to regulate services activities .


### draft measures referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 shall be notified to the commission at least three months prior to their adoption . ### draft measures referred to in paragraph 1 shall be notified to the commission at least three months prior to their adoption .


### the information to be submitted by the notifying member state should be sufficient to assess compliance with directive 2006 / 123 / ec and , in particular , the proportionality of a notified authorisation scheme or requirement . therefore , in accordance with the case - law of the court of justice of the european union , such information should clarify the public interest objective pursued , set out how the notified authorisation scheme or requirement is necessary and justified to meet this objective and explain how it is proportionate in doing so ; thus , it should include explanations on why it is suitable , why it does not go beyond what is necessary and why no alternative and less restrictive means would be available . the reasons which may be invoked by the member state concerned by way of justification should be accompanied by appropriate evidence and by an analysis of the proportionality of the notified measure . ### the information to be submitted by the notifying member state following an alert from the commission should be sufficient to assess compliance with directive 2006 / 123 / ec and , in particular , the proportionality of a notified authorisation scheme or requirement . therefore , in accordance with the case - law of the court of justice of the european union , such information should clarify the public interest objective pursued and set out how the notified authorisation scheme or requirement is appropriate for meeting this objective .


### where a member state modifies a notified draft measure with the effect of significantly extending its scope or content , or shortening the timetable originally envisaged for implementation , or adding requirements or authorisation schemes , or making those requirements or authorisation schemes more restrictive for the establishment , or the cross - border provision of services , it shall notify the modified draft measure previously notified under paragraph 1 again , including an explanation of the objective and content of the modifications . in such a case , the previous notification shall be deemed to be withdrawn . ### where a member state heavily modifies a previously notified draft measure , significantly extending its scope or content , or adding requirements or authorisation schemes , or making those requirements or authorisation schemes more restrictive for the establishment , or the cross - border provision of services , the member state shall notify the draft measure containing such amendments , including an explanation of the objective and content of the modifications .


### to ensure the efficiency , effectiveness and coherence of the notification procedure , the commission should retain the power to adopt decisions requiring the member state in question to refrain from adopting notified measures or , if already adopted , to repeal them , where they violate directive 2006 / 123 / ec . ### to ensure the efficiency , effectiveness and coherence of the notification procedure , the commission may issue an opinion requiring the member state in question to amend notified measures in line with the alert previously issued . the opinion and the previous alert shall not prevent the member state from adopting the measures in question .


### where a member state modifies a notified draft measure with the effect of significantly extending its scope or content , or shortening the timetable originally envisaged for implementation , or adding requirements or authorisation schemes , or making those requirements or authorisation schemes more restrictive for the establishment , or the cross - border provision of services , it shall notify the modified draft measure previously notified under paragraph 1 again , including an explanation of the objective and content of the modifications . in such a case , the previous notification shall be deemed to be withdrawn . ### where a member state substantially modifies a draft measure that has already been notified , extending its scope or content , shortening the timetable for implementation , or adding or tightening requirements or authorisation schemes for the cross - border provision of services , the member state shall notify those modifications to the commission , including an explanation of the objective and content thereof . 2bmember states shall not be obliged to notify the changes made during the parliamentary procedure to a draft measure that has been already notified . however , member states shall notify the draft measure containing those changes to the commission once it has been adopted . .


### where following the consultation the commission still has concerns about the compliance with directive 2006 / 123 / ec of the notified draft measure , it may alert the notifying member state , giving it the opportunity to bring its draft measure into conformity with eu law . that alert should include an explanation of the legal concerns identified by the commission . reception of such an alert entails that the notifying member state shall not adopt the notified measure for three months . ### where following the consultation the commission still has concerns about the compliance with directive 2006 / 123 / ec of the notified draft measure , it may alert the notifying member state , giving it the opportunity to bring its draft measure into conformity with eu law . that alert must include a detailed explanation of the legal concerns identified by the commission and must be accompanied by appropriate evidence demonstrating that the alert complies with the principles of proportionality and subsidiarity . such an alert shall not prevent the member state from adopting the provision in question .


### the present directive establishes a consultation of three months to allow an assessment of notified draft measures as well as an effective dialogue with the notifying member state . in order to make the consultation work in practice and to allow member states , the commission and stakeholders to effectively provide their comments , member states should notify draft measures at least three months prior to their adoption . notifying member states should take into account the comments made on the notified draft measure , in compliance with union law . ### the present directive establishes a consultation of three months to allow an assessment of notified draft measures as well as an effective dialogue with the notifying member state . in order to make the consultation work in practice and to allow member states , the commission and stakeholders to effectively provide their comments , member states should notify draft measures prior to their adoption and should assess the comments made on the notified draft measure , in compliance with union law .


### . member states shall take appropriate measures to protect customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty and , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers in critical times . member states shall ensure that rights and obligations linked to vulnerable customers are applied . in particular , they shall take measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms . ### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which shall refer to energy poverty and ensure the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers under any circumstances . member states shall ensure that rights and obligations linked to vulnerable customers are applied . in particular , they shall take measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms .


### monitoring the level and effectiveness of market opening and competition at wholesale and retail levels , including on electricity exchanges , prices for household customers including prepayment systems , switching rates , disconnection rates , charges for and the execution of maintenance services , and complaints by household customers , as well as any distortion or restriction of competition , including providing any relevant information , and bringing any relevant cases to the relevant competition authorities ; ### actively monitoring the level and effectiveness of market opening and competition at wholesale and retail levels , including on electricity exchanges , prices for household customers including prepayment systems and dynamic price contracts , , the relationship between household prices and wholesale prices , how network costs and policy levies are passed through to customers , the evolution of supplier operational costs and margins across different final customer groups , including household and non - household customers , the number of tariffs available to different consumer groups , including by payment methods , number of offers restricted to different sales channels , number of customers on bundled contracts , satisfaction with the service provided by their supplier and complaint handling services , switching rates , intra - supplier switching rates , switching times , erroneous switching , satisfaction with the switching process , disconnection rates , charges for and the execution of maintenance services , number of final customers in contracts with aggregators , number of disconnections and reasons for disconnections and customers in debt number of customers in fuel poverty or vulnerable situations , and complaints by household customers , as well as any distortion or restriction of competition , including providing any relevant information , and bringing any relevant cases to the relevant competition or consumer authorities , share of energy efficiency measures implemented as a priority in households affected by energy poverty and in social housing ;


### member states shall ensure that a final customer wishing to terminate the contract with an aggregator , while respecting contractual conditions , is entitled to such termination within three weeks . ### member states shall ensure that a final customer wishing to terminate the contract with an aggregator , while respecting contractual conditions , is entitled to such termination within three weeks . this period shall be reduced to 24 hours as soon as possible , based on a cost - benefit analysis , and no later than 2022 .


### distributed energy technologies and consumer empowerment have made community energy and energy cooperatives an effective and cost - efficient way to meet citizens ' needs and expectations regarding energy sources , services and local participation . community energy offers an inclusive option for all consumers to have a direct stake in producing , consuming or sharing energy between each other within a geographically confined community network that may operate in an isolated mode or be connected to the public distribution network . community energy initiatives focus primarily on providing affordable energy of a specific kind , such as renewable energy , for their members or shareholders rather than prioritising profit - making like a traditional energy company . by directly engaging with consumers community energy initiatives are demonstrating their potential in facilitating the up - take of new technologies and consumption patterns , including smart distribution grids and demand response , in an integrated manner . community energy can also advance energy efficiency at household level and help fight energy poverty through reduced consumption and lower supply tariffs . community energy also enables certain groups of household consumers to participate in the energy market who otherwise might not have been able to do so . where they have been successfully operated such initiatives have delivered economic , social and environmental value to the community that goes beyond the mere benefits derived from the provision of energy services . local energy communities should be allowed to operate on the market on a level - playing field without distorting competition . household consumers should be allowed to voluntarily participate in a community energy initiative as well as to leave it , without losing access to the network operated by the community energy initiative or their rights as consumers . access to a local energy community ' s network should be granted on fair and cost - reflective terms . ### distributed energy technologies and consumer empowerment have made community energy and energy cooperatives an effective and cost - efficient way to meet citizens ' needs and expectations regarding energy sources , services and local participation . community energy initiatives , or local energy communities , focus primarily on empowering citizens , local authorities and small and medium enterprises , as final consumers , to come together to jointly control , in a democratic way , local energy businesses aimed to provide local environmental , economic and social community benefits . energy communities provide affordable energy of a specific kind such as renewable energy , for their members or shareholders , or to alleviate problems concerning a decreasing standard of living or to strengthen community interaction , rather than prioritising profit - making like a traditional energy company . by directly engaging with consumers community energy initiatives are demonstrating their potential in facilitating the up - take of new technologies and consumption patterns , including smart distribution grids and demand response , in an integrated manner . community energy can also advance energy efficiency at household level and help fight energy poverty through reduced consumption , lower supply tariffs , and means to invest in energy performance renovations . community energy also enables certain groups of household consumers to participate in the energy market who otherwise might not have been able to do so , including through virtual net metering . where they have been successfully operated such initiatives have delivered economic , social and environmental value to the community that goes beyond the mere benefits derived from the provision of energy services . household consumers should be allowed to voluntarily participate in a community energy initiative while maintaining all their rights as a consumer , including their right to choice and to a good quality of supply . individuals should be able to leave a local energy community without losing access to the network operated by the community energy initiative or their rights as consumers .


### helping to ensure , together with other relevant authorities , that the consumer protection measures are effective and enforced ; ### helping to ensure , together with other relevant authorities , that the new and existing consumer protection measures , including rights of active consumers , are effective and enforced ;


### helping to ensure , together with other relevant authorities , that the consumer protection measures are effective and enforced ; ### helping to ensure , together with other relevant authorities , that the new and existing consumer protection measures , including rights of active customers , are effective and enforced ;


### member states shall ensure that final customers are entitled to receive all relevant demand response data or data on supplied and sold electricity at least once per year . ### member states shall ensure that final customers are entitled to receive settlement billing and settlement billing information , and demand response data or data on supplied and sold electricity as defined in article 18 and annex ii . this information shall be provided without fees to the final customer .


### - the means by which up - to - date information on all applicable tariffs and maintenance charges may be obtained , ### - the means by which up - to - date information on all applicable tariffs , maintenance charges and additional products and / or services maybe obtained


### member states may require the comparison tools referred to in paragraph 1 to include comparative determinants relating to the nature of the services offered by the suppliers . ### member states shall require the comparison tools referred to in paragraph 1 to include comparative determinants relating to the nature of the type of energy provided and the services offered by the suppliers as set out in annex i .


### monitoring the level and effectiveness of market opening and competition at wholesale and retail levels , including on electricity exchanges , prices for household customers including prepayment systems , switching rates , disconnection rates , charges for and the execution of maintenance services , and complaints by household customers , as well as any distortion or restriction of competition , including providing any relevant information , and bringing any relevant cases to the relevant competition authorities ; ### actively monitoring the level and effectiveness of market opening and competition at wholesale and retail levels , including on electricity exchanges , prices for household customers including prepayment systems , and dynamic price contracts , price spikes and their impact on retail and consumer prices , switching rates , including collective switching , disconnection rates , charges for and the execution of maintenance services , number of final customers in contracts with aggregators , barriers to the exercise of the activities listed in article 15 , and acting on complaints by household customers , as well as any distortion or restriction of competition , including providing any relevant information , and bringing any relevant cases to the relevant competition or consumer authorities ; share of energy efficiency measures implemented as a priority in households affected by energy poverty and in social housing ;


### member states shall ensure that customers have access , free of charge , to at least one tool comparing the offers of suppliers that meets the certification criteria set out in annex i . the comparison tools may be operated by any entity , including private companies and public authorities or bodies . customers should be informed of the availability of such tools . ### member states shall ensure that customers have access , free of charge , to at least one tool comparing the offers of suppliers that meets at least the certification criteria set out in annex i . the comparison tools may be operated by any entity , including private companies and public authorities or bodies . customers should be informed of the availability of such tools .


### billing shall take place on the basis of actual consumption at least once a year . billing information shall be made available at least once every three months , upon request or where the final customers have opted to receive electronic billing or else twice a year . ### billing and calculating settlements shall take place on the basis of actual consumption , demand response data or data on electricity fed into the grid or sold at least once a year . billing information and demand response data or information on electricity fed into the grid or sold shall be made available at least once every three months , upon request at any time or where the final customers have opted to receive electronic billing or else twice a year .


### receive a final closure account following any change of electricity supplier no later than six weeks after the change of supplier has taken place . ### receive a final closure account following any change of electricity supplier no later than two weeks after the change of supplier has taken place .


### the regulatory authority shall examine whether the ten - year network development plan covers all investment needs identified during the consultation process , and whether it is consistent with the non - binding union - wide ten - year network development plan referred to in [ article 27 of recast of regulation 714 / 2009 as proposed by com861 / 2 ] . if any doubt arises as to the consistency with the union - wide network development plan , the regulatory authority shall consult the agency . the regulatory authority may require the transmission system operator to amend its ten - year network development plan . ### the regulatory authority shall examine whether the ten - year network development plan covers all investment needs identified during the consultation process , and whether it is consistent with the non - binding union - wide ten - year network development plan referred to in [ article 27 of recast of regulation 714 / 2009 as proposed by com861 / 2 ] and the eu ' s climate and energy targets . if any doubt arises as to the consistency with the union - wide network development plan or climate and energy targets , the regulatory authority shall consult the agency . the regulatory authority may require the transmission system operator to amend its ten - year network development plan .


### where final customers have meters that allow remote reading by the operator , accurate billing information based on actual consumption shall be provided at least once a month . ### where final customers have meters that allow remote reading by the operator , accurate billing and settlement information based on actual consumption , demand response data or information on electricity sold or fed into the grid shall be provided at least once a month . after the installation of the smart meter , the final customer shall not be charged for unbilled energy consumed prior to the billing period covered in the statement of account .


### . member states shall take appropriate measures to protect customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty and , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers in critical times . member states shall ensure that rights and obligations linked to vulnerable customers are applied . in particular , they shall take measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms . ### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which shall refer to energy poverty and , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers . member states shall ensure a free provision of a basic minimum quantity of electricity to vulnerable customers and guarantee that all other rights and obligations linked to these customers are applied . in particular , they shall take all necessary measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information , dispute settlement mechanisms and data protection . disconnection shall be prohibited until the dispute between the supplier and the customer is settled .


### - the means by which up - to - date information on all applicable tariffs and maintenance charges may be obtained , ### - the means by which up - to - date information on all applicable tariffs , maintenance charges and additional products and / or services may be obtained ,


### are entitled to generate , store , consume and sell self - generated electricity in all organised markets either individually or through aggregators without being subject to disproportionately burdensome procedures and charges that are not cost reflective ; ### are entitled to generate , store , consume , sell with priority access self - generated electricity in all organised markets either individually or through aggregators , as well as to participate in the ancillary services of the system and in the mechanisms of response to the demand , without being subject to discriminatory or disproportionately burdensome procedures and charges that are not cost reflective , and are entitled to receive a remuneration for self - generated electricity which reflects the market value of the electricity fed in ;


### member states shall define a set of criteria for the purposes of measuring energy poverty . member states shall continuously monitor the number of households in energy poverty and shall report on the evolution of energy poverty and measures taken to prevent it to the commission every two years as part of their integrated national energy and climate progress reports in accordance with article 21 of [ governance regulation as proposed by com759 ] . ### member states in consultation with relevant stakeholders , including the energy poverty observatory , shall define a set of criteria and indicators for the purposes of measuring energy poverty . member states shall continuously monitor the number of households in energy poverty , analyse if these customers are sufficiently protected and modify protections where needed and shall report on the evolution of energy poverty and measures taken to prevent it to the commission every two years as part of their integrated national energy and climate progress reports in accordance with article 21 of [ governance regulation as proposed by com759 ] .


### where appropriate , the following information shall be prominently displayed to final customers in or with their bills and periodical settlement bills : ### where appropriate , the following information shall be prominently displayed to final customers in or with their bills , periodical settlement bills and settlement statements :


### with a view to increasing transparency in the market and provide to all interested parties all necessary information , decisions or proposals for a decision concerning transmission and distribution tariffs as referred in article 60 , regulatory authorities shall make available to market parties the detailed methodology and underlying costs used for the calculation of the relevant network tariffs . ### with a view to increasing transparency in the market and provide to all interested parties all necessary information , decisions or proposals for a decision concerning transmission and distribution tariffs as referred in article 60 , regulatory authorities shall publish in an accessible manner for all citizens and market parties the detailed methodology and underlying assumptions used for the calculation of the relevant network tariffs , which shall include a cost benefit analysis for distributed energy resources . this analysis shall ensure that network tariffs reflect the benefits deriving from the integration of final customers’ activities in the grid , and that the tariffs are not set at a level that unduly hampers the development of such activities .


### any tool comparing the offers of suppliers shall be eligible to apply for certification in accordance with this article on a voluntary and non - discriminatory basis . ### any tool comparing the offers of suppliers and aggregators shall be eligible to apply for certification in accordance with this article on and non - discriminatory basis .


### distribution system operators shall define standardised market products for the services procured ensuring effective participation of all market participants including renewable energy sources , demand response , and aggregators . distribution system operators shall exchange all necessary information and coordinate with transmission system operators in order to ensure the optimal utilisation of resources , ensure the secure and efficient operation of the system and facilitate market development . distribution system operators shall be adequately remunerated for the procurement of such services in order to recover at least the corresponding expenses , including the necessary information and communication technologies expenses , including expenses which correspond to the necessary information and communication infrastructure . ### standardised market products for such services shall be defined at least at the national level . distribution system operators shall , in a transparent and participatory process that includes all potential system users , the national regulator and the transmission system operator , define standardised market products for the services procured ensuring effective participation of all market participants including renewable energy sources , demand response , storage aggregators and local energy communities . distribution system operators shall define such products based on the needs in their respective control areas and take into account the specific capabilities of distributed energy resources . the products shall be defined at least 18 months after the transposition of the directive . distribution system operators shall exchange all necessary information and coordinate with transmission system operators in order to ensure the optimal utilisation of resources , ensure the secure and efficient operation of the system and facilitate market development . distribution system operators shall be adequately remunerated for the procurement of such services in order to recover at least the corresponding expenses , including the necessary information and communication technologies expenses , including expenses which correspond to the necessary information and communication infrastructure .


### member states may require the comparison tools referred to in paragraph 1 to include comparative determinants relating to the nature of the services offered by the suppliers . ### member states shall require the comparison tools referred to in paragraph 1 to include comparative determinants relating to the nature of the services offered by the suppliers . ‘ green tariffs’ should be clearly displayed and searchable according to their level of additionality . exceptional conditions of an offer , including discounts or planned increase of the price during the contract duration , should be identified and clearly highlighted in the comparison tool .


### member states shall ensure that customers have access , free of charge , to at least one tool comparing the offers of suppliers that meets the certification criteria set out in annex i . the comparison tools may be operated by any entity , including private companies and public authorities or bodies . customers should be informed of the availability of such tools . ### member states shall ensure that customers have access , free of charge , to at least one tool comparing the offers of suppliers that meets at least the certification criteria set out in annex i and shall cover the all market for electricity services . the comparison tools shall allow for comparison of bundled services and shall also display offers by aggregators . customers should be informed of the availability of such tools and shall be able to compare their current contract with other offers in an easy way .


### with a view to increasing transparency in the market and provide to all interested parties all necessary information , decisions or proposals for a decision concerning transmission and distribution tariffs as referred in article 60 , regulatory authorities shall make available to market parties the detailed methodology and underlying costs used for the calculation of the relevant network tariffs . ### with a view to increasing transparency in the market and provide to all interested parties all necessary information , decisions or proposals for a decision concerning transmission and distribution tariffs as referred in article 60 , national regulatory authorities shall make available to market parties the detailed methodology and underlying assumptions used for the calculation of the relevant network tariffs , which shall include a cost benefit analysis for distributed energy resources , including an assessment of their potential value to the grid and the contribution to other energy policy objectives , in particular those provided by active customers and local energy communities .


### when elaborating the ten - year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall make reasonable assumptions about the evolution of the generation , supply , energy storage , consumption and exchanges with other countries , taking into account investment plans for regional and union - wide networks . ### when elaborating the ten - year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall make reasonable assumptions about the evolution of the generation , supply , energy storage , demand response , consumption and exchanges with other countries , taking into account investment plans for regional and union - wide networks .


### benefit from a non - discriminatory treatment with regard to their activities , rights and obligations as final customers , generators , distribution system operators or aggregators ; ### benefit from the necessary regulatory and administrative support with regard to their activities as final customers , generators , suppliers , distribution system operators , aggregators , and any other activity they might perform ;


### member states shall ensure that bills fulfil the minimum requirements for billing and billing information as set out in annex ii . the information contained in bills shall be correct , clear , concise and presented in a manner that facilitates comparison by consumers . ### member states shall ensure that bills provided by suppliers fulfil the minimum requirements for billing and billing information as set out in annex ii . settlement statements provided by aggregators and information to active consumers on the electricity fed into the grid or sold from the market participant buying their electricity shall fulfil the requirements set out in points 1 , 2a and 3 of annex ii . the information contained in bills provided by suppliers , distribution system operators and information in settlement statements provided by aggregators shall be correct , clear , concise and presented in a manner that facilitates comparison by consumers .


### such facilities are necessary for the distribution system operators to fulfil their obligations under this directive for the efficient , reliable and secure operation of the distribution system ; and ### such facilities are used by the distribution system operator exclusively for the purpose of fulfilling its obligations under this directive for the efficient , reliable and secure operation of the distribution system , and they are not used to sell electricity to the market .


### ensuring that customers benefit through the efficient functioning of their national market , promoting effective competition and helping to ensure consumer protection ; ### ensuring that customers benefit through the efficient functioning of their national market , promoting effective competition and ensuring consumer protection in close cooperation with relevant consumer protection authorities ;


### . member states shall take appropriate measures to protect customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty and , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers in critical times . member states shall ensure that rights and obligations linked to vulnerable customers are applied . in particular , they shall take measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms . ### . member states shall take appropriate measures to protect customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which shall refer to energy poverty and , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers in critical times . member states shall ensure a free provision of a basic minimum quantity of electricity to vulnerable customers and guarantee that all other rights and obligations linked to these customers are applied . in particular , they shall take all necessary measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information , dispute settlement mechanisms and data protection .


### . member states shall take appropriate measures to protect customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty and , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers in critical times . member states shall ensure that rights and obligations linked to vulnerable customers are applied . in particular , they shall take measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms . ### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which shall refer to energy poverty and , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers . member states shall ensure a free provision of a basic minimum quantity of electricity to vulnerable customers and guarantee that all other rights and obligations linked to these customers are applied . in particular , they shall take all necessary measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information , dispute settlement mechanisms and data protection . disconnection shall be prohibited until the dispute between the supplier and the customer is settled .


### distributed energy technologies and consumer empowerment have made community energy and energy cooperatives an effective and cost - efficient way to meet citizens ' needs and expectations regarding energy sources , services and local participation . community energy offers an inclusive option for all consumers to have a direct stake in producing , consuming or sharing energy between each other within a geographically confined community network that may operate in an isolated mode or be connected to the public distribution network . community energy initiatives focus primarily on providing affordable energy of a specific kind , such as renewable energy , for their members or shareholders rather than prioritising profit - making like a traditional energy company . by directly engaging with consumers community energy initiatives are demonstrating their potential in facilitating the up - take of new technologies and consumption patterns , including smart distribution grids and demand response , in an integrated manner . community energy can also advance energy efficiency at household level and help fight energy poverty through reduced consumption and lower supply tariffs . community energy also enables certain groups of household consumers to participate in the energy market who otherwise might not have been able to do so . where they have been successfully operated such initiatives have delivered economic , social and environmental value to the community that goes beyond the mere benefits derived from the provision of energy services . local energy communities should be allowed to operate on the market on a level - playing field without distorting competition . household consumers should be allowed to voluntarily participate in a community energy initiative as well as to leave it , without losing access to the network operated by the community energy initiative or their rights as consumers . access to a local energy community ' s network should be granted on fair and cost - reflective terms . ### distributed energy technologies and consumer empowerment have made community energy and energy cooperatives an effective and cost - efficient way to meet citizens ' needs and expectations regarding energy sources , services and local participation . community energy initiatives , or local energy communities , focus primarily on providing affordable energy of a specific kind , such as renewable energy , for their members or shareholders , or to alleviate problems concerning a decreasing standard of living or to strengthen community interaction , rather than prioritising profit - making like a traditional energy company . by directly engaging with consumers community energy initiatives are demonstrating their potential in facilitating the up - take of new technologies and consumption patterns , including smart distribution grids and demand response , in an integrated manner . community energy can also advance energy efficiency at household level and help fight energy poverty through reduced consumption and lower supply tariffs . community energy also enables certain groups of household consumers to participate in the energy market who otherwise might not have been able to do so . where they have been successfully operated such initiatives have delivered economic , social and environmental value to the community that goes beyond the mere benefits derived from the provision of energy services . local energy communities should be allowed to operate on the market on a level - playing field without distorting competition . household consumers should be allowed to voluntarily participate in a community energy initiative while maintaining all their rights as a consumer , including their right to choice and to a good quality of supply . individuals should be able to leave a local energy community , without losing access to the network operated by the community energy initiative or their rights as consumers .


### are entitled to generate , store , consume and sell self - generated electricity in all organised markets either individually or through aggregators without being subject to disproportionately burdensome procedures and charges that are not cost reflective ; ### are entitled to generate , store , consume and sell self - generated electricity in all organised markets , including the markets based on distributed ledger technologies , either individually or through aggregators without being subject to discriminatory or disproportionately burdensome procedures , charges that are not cost reflective , levies , fees , taxes , and financial burdens that put them in disadvantage when compared to those who generate energy only to be fed into the grid ;


### benefit from a non - discriminatory treatment with regard to their activities , rights and obligations as final customers , generators , distribution system operators or aggregators ; ### benefit from a non - discriminatory treatment with regard to their activities , rights and obligations as final customers , generators , suppliers , distribution system operators or aggregators ;


### ' local energy community ' means : an association , a cooperative , a partnership , a non - profit organisation or other legal entity which is effectively controlled by local shareholders or members , generally value rather than profit - driven , involved in distributed generation and in performing activities of a distribution system operator , supplier or aggregator at local level , including across borders ; ### ' local energy community ' means : a sme or a non - for - profit organisation , which is based on open participation , is effectively controlled by local shareholders or members that are participating collectively as final customers and have equal decision making rights , whose predominant aim is to provide environmental , economic or social community benefits for their members or the local area or areas where they operate rather than profit driven , that carries out or is involved in at least one or more of the following activities : distributed generation , storage , supply , provision of energy efficiency services , aggregation , electro - mobility , or distribution system operation ;


### member states shall provide the necessary regulatory framework to allow and incentivise distribution system operators to procure services in order to improve efficiencies in the operation and development of the distribution system , including local congestion management . in particular , regulatory frameworks shall enable distribution system operators to procure services from resources such as distributed generation , demand response or storage and consider energy efficiency measures , which may supplant the need to upgrade or replace electricity capacity and which support the efficient and secure operation of the distribution system . distribution system operators shall procure these services according to transparent , non - discriminatory and market based procedures . ### member states shall provide the necessary regulatory framework to ensure , including allowing and incentivising , distribution system operators procure services in order to improve efficiencies in the operation and development of the distribution system , including local congestion management . in particular , regulatory frameworks shall ensure distribution system operators procure services from resources such as distributed generation , demand response or storage and abide by an efficiency first approach , including implementation of specific energy efficiency measures , which may supplant the need to upgrade or replace electricity capacity and which support the efficient and secure operation of the distribution system . distribution system operators shall procure these services according to transparent , non - discriminatory and market based procedures .


### with a view to increasing transparency in the market and provide to all interested parties all necessary information , decisions or proposals for a decision concerning transmission and distribution tariffs as referred in article 60 , regulatory authorities shall make available to market parties the detailed methodology and underlying costs used for the calculation of the relevant network tariffs . ### with a view to increasing transparency in the market and provide to all interested parties all necessary information , decisions or proposals for a decision concerning transmission and distribution tariffs as referred in article 60 , regulatory authorities shall publish in an accessible manner for all citizens and market parties the detailed methodology and underlying assumptions used for the calculation of the relevant network tariffs , which shall include a cost benefit analysis for distributed energy resources . this analysis shall ensure that network tariffs reflect the benefits deriving from the integration of final customers’ activities in the grid , and that the tariffs are not set at a level that unduly hampers the development of such activities .


### member states shall ensure that , where a final customer wishes to conclude a contract with an aggregator , such engagement shall not require the consent of the final customer ' s supplier . ### member states shall ensure that final customers are not prohibited by their supplier to conclude a contract with an aggregator and that , where a final customer wishes to conclude a contract with an aggregator , such engagement shall not require the consent of the final customer ' s supplier . final customers that have entered a contract with an aggregator shall have access to the same offers and tariffs from suppliers as consumers without those services .


### . member states shall take appropriate measures to protect customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty and , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers in critical times . member states shall ensure that rights and obligations linked to vulnerable customers are applied . in particular , they shall take measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms . ### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers . in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which shall refer to energy poverty and ensure the prohibition of disconnection of electricity to such customers in critical times . member states shall ensure that rights and obligations linked to vulnerable customers are applied . in particular , they shall take measures to protect customers in remote areas . they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms . member states shall ensure that the eligible customer is in fact able easily to switch to a new supplier . as regards at least household customers , those measures shall include those set out in annex i .


### billing shall take place on the basis of actual consumption at least once a year . billing information shall be made available at least once every three months , upon request or where the final customers have opted to receive electronic billing or else twice a year . ### billing and calculating settlements shall take place on the basis of actual consumption , demand response data or data on electricity fed into the grid or sold at least once a year . billing information and demand response data or information on electricity fed into the grid or sold shall be made available at least once every three months , upon request at any time or where the final customers have opted to receive electronic billing or else twice a year .


### monitoring the level and effectiveness of market opening and competition at wholesale and retail levels , including on electricity exchanges , prices for household customers including prepayment systems , switching rates , disconnection rates , charges for and the execution of maintenance services , and complaints by household customers , as well as any distortion or restriction of competition , including providing any relevant information , and bringing any relevant cases to the relevant competition authorities ; ### actively monitoring the level and effectiveness of market opening and competition at wholesale and retail levels , including on electricity exchanges , prices for household customers including prepayment systems and dynamic price contracts , , the relationship between household prices and wholesale prices , how network costs and policy levies are passed through to customers , the evolution of supplier operational costs and margins across different final customer groups , including household and non - household customers , the number of tariffs available to different consumer groups , including by payment methods , number of offers restricted to different sales channels , number of customers on bundled contracts , satisfaction with the service provided by their supplier and complaint handling services , switching rates , intra - supplier switching rates , switching times , erroneous switching , satisfaction with the switching process , disconnection rates , charges for and the execution of maintenance services , number of final customers in contracts with aggregators , number of disconnections and reasons for disconnections and customers in debt number of customers in fuel poverty or vulnerable situations , and complaints by household customers , as well as any distortion or restriction of competition , including providing any relevant information , and bringing any relevant cases to the relevant competition or consumer authorities , share of energy efficiency measures implemented as a priority in households affected by energy poverty and in social housing ;


### distribution system operators shall define standardised market products for the services procured ensuring effective participation of all market participants including renewable energy sources , demand response , and aggregators . distribution system operators shall exchange all necessary information and coordinate with transmission system operators in order to ensure the optimal utilisation of resources , ensure the secure and efficient operation of the system and facilitate market development . distribution system operators shall be adequately remunerated for the procurement of such services in order to recover at least the corresponding expenses , including the necessary information and communication technologies expenses , including expenses which correspond to the necessary information and communication infrastructure . ### standardised market products for such services shall be defined at least at the national level . distribution system operators shall , in a transparent and participatory process that includes all potential system users , the national regulator and the transmission system operator , define standardized market products for the services procured ensuring effective participation of all market participants including renewable energy sources , demand response , aggregators , and energy communities , undertakings , including community networks . distribution system operators shall exchange all necessary information and coordinate with transmission system operators in order to ensure the optimal utilisation of resources , ensure the secure and efficient operation of the system and facilitate market development . distribution system operators shall be adequately remunerated for the procurement of such services in order to recover at least the corresponding expenses , including the necessary information and communication technologies expenses , including expenses which correspond to the necessary information and communication infrastructure .


### member states shall take appropriate measures , such as formulating national energy action plans , providing benefits in social security systems to ensure the necessary electricity supply to vulnerable customers , or providing for support for energy efficiency improvements , to address energy poverty where identified , including in the broader context of poverty . such measures shall not impede the effective opening of the market set out in article 4 or market functioning and shall be notified to the commission , where relevant , in accordance with the provisions of article 9 . such notification may also include measures taken within the general social security system . ### member states shall take appropriate measures , such as formulating national energy action plans , providing benefits in social security systems to ensure a right to sufficient electricity supply to vulnerable customers , or providing for support for energy efficiency improvements , for instance by energy community undertakings , taking into account the assessment undertaken pursuant to section a . 3 . 1 . 2 of annex i of [ governance regulation as proposed by com759 ] , to address energy poverty where identified , including in the broader context of poverty . such measures shall not impede the effective opening of the market set out in article 4 or market functioning and shall be notified to the commission , where relevant , in accordance with the provisions of article 9 . such notification may also include measures taken within the general social security system .


### strengthening the competitiveness of european enterprises while reassuring an effective level playing field and an open and competitive internal market is of outmost importance . smes are the engine of the european economy making up 99% of all businesses in europe , providing two thirds of jobs , and contributing substantially to the creation of new jobs with a regional and local dimension . ### strengthening the competitiveness of european enterprises while reassuring an effective level playing field and an open and competitive internal market is of outmost importance . european enterprises should provide high quality products and services that are smarter , customised and applying the highest environmental and sustainability standards , creating less waste and pollution . their competitiveness should be also based on increased resource and energy efficiency . smes are the engine of the european economy making up 99% of all businesses in europe , providing two thirds of jobs , and contributing substantially to the creation of new jobs with a focus on social cohesion and hence on a regional and local dimension .


### several programmes for union action exist currently in the fields of competitiveness of enterprises including smes , consumer protection , customers and end - users in financial services , policy making in financial services and food chain . some additional activities are financed directly under the internal market budget lines . it is necessary to streamline and exploit synergies between various actions and provide for a more flexible and agile framework to finance activities aiming to achieve a well - functioning internal market in the most cost - efficient manner . it is therefore necessary to establish a new programme bringing together activities financed previously under those other programmes and other relevant budget lines . the programme should also include new initiatives which aim to improve the functioning of the internal market . ### several programmes for union action exist currently in the fields of competitiveness and sustainability of enterprises including smes , consumer protection , customers and end - users in financial services , policy making in financial services and food chain . some additional activities are financed directly under the internal market budget lines . it is necessary to streamline and exploit synergies between various actions and provide for a more flexible and agile framework to finance activities aiming to achieve a well - functioning internal market in the most cost - efficient manner . it is therefore necessary to establish a new programme bringing together activities financed previously under those other programmes and other relevant budget lines . the programme should also include new initiatives which aim to improve the functioning of the internal market .


### improving the competitiveness of enterprises with special emphasis on smes and achieving additionality through the provision of measures that provide various forms of support to smes , access to markets including the internationalisation of smes , favourable business environment for smes , the competitiveness of sectors , the modernisation of industry and the promotion of entrepreneurship ; ### improving the competitiveness of enterprises with special emphasis on smes and achieving additionality through the provision of measures that provide various forms of support to smes , access to markets including the internationalisation of smes , favourable business environment for smes , ensuring digital transition , the competitiveness of sectors , the modernisation of industry and the promotion of entrepreneurship , access to data in the value chain ;


### creativity and innovation are crucial for the competitiveness of the union’s industrial value chains . they represent catalysts for industrial modernisation and contribute to smart , inclusive sustainable growth . however , uptake by smes is still lagging behind . the programme should therefore support targeted actions , networks and partnerships for creativity - driven innovation throughout the industrial value chain . ### creativity and innovation are crucial for the competitiveness of the union’s industrial value chains . they represent catalysts for industrial modernisation and contribute to smart , inclusive sustainable growth . however , uptake by smes is still lagging behind . the programme should therefore support targeted actions , networks and partnerships for creativity - driven innovation throughout the societal and industrial value chain .


### a new third subparagraph is added to paragraph 2 as follows : ### paragraphs 2 to 6 are deleted


### the european council confirmed that the modalities , including transparency , of the optional free allocation to modernise the energy sector in certain member states should be improved . investments with a value of €10 million or more should be selected by the member state concerned through a competitive bidding process on the basis of clear and transparent rules to ensure that free allocation is used to promote real investments modernising the energy sector in line with the energy union objectives . investments with a value of less than €10 million should also be eligible for funding from the free allocation . the member state concerned should select such investments based on clear and transparent criteria . the results of this selection process should be subject to public consultation . the public should be duly kept informed at the stage of the selection of investment projects as well as of their implementation . ### the european council confirmed that the modalities , including transparency , of the optional free allocation to modernise the energy sector in certain member states should be improved . investments with a value of €10 million or more should be selected by the member state concerned through a competitive bidding process on the basis of clear and transparent rules to ensure that free allocation is used to promote real investments in promoting large scale use of renewables in line with the energy union objectives . investments with a value of less than €10 million should also be eligible for funding from the free allocation . the member state concerned should select such investments based on clear and transparent criteria . the results of this selection process should be subject to public consultation . the public should be duly kept informed at the stage of the selection of investment projects as well as of their implementation .


### to preserve the environmental benefit of emission reductions in the union while actions by other countries do not provide comparable incentives to industry to reduce emissions , free allocation should continue to installations in sectors and sub - sectors at genuine risk of carbon leakage . experience gathered during the operation of the eu ets confirmed that sectors and sub - sectors are at risk of carbon leakage to varying degrees , and that free allocation has prevented carbon leakage . while some sectors and sub - sectors can be deemed at a higher risk of carbon leakage , others are able to pass on a considerable share of the costs of allowances to cover their emissions in product prices without losing market share and only bear the remaining part of the costs so that they are at a low risk of carbon leakage . the commission should determine and differentiate the relevant sectors based on their trade intensity and their emissions intensity to better identify sectors at a genuine risk of carbon leakage . where , based on these criteria , a threshold determined by taking into account the respective possibility for sectors and sub - sectors concerned to pass on costs in product prices is exceeded , the sector or sub - sector should be deemed at risk of carbon leakage . others should be considered at a low risk or at no risk of carbon leakage . taking into account the possibilities for sectors and sub - sectors outside of electricity generation to pass on costs in product prices should also reduce windfall profits . ### the study commissioned by the commission to a consortium of research and analysis centres in 2013 concluded that during the years 2005 - 2012 no carbon leakage as defined by the directive has occurred and that the slight fluctuations in import / export observed is attributable by global demand development and input price differences . according to a recent study , differences in electricity price are unlikely to affect eu market significantly and even for energy intensive sectors electricity price could account for roughly 0 . 01% of changes in market flow . the same study concluded that with a co2 price of 40 - 65 euro / ton would increase import by less than 0 , 05% and decrease export by around 0 . 2%


### article 191 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union requires that union policy is based on the principle that the polluter should pay and , on this basis , directive 2003 / 87 / ec provides for a transition to full auctioning over time . avoiding carbon leakage is a justification to postpone full transition , and targeted free allocation of allowances to industry is justified in order to address genuine risks of increases in greenhouse gas emissions in third countries where industry is not subject to comparable carbon constraints as long as comparable climate policy measures are not undertaken by other major economies . ### article 191 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union requires that union policy is based on the principle that the polluter should pay and , on this basis , directive 2003 / 87 / ec provides for a transition to full auctioning starting in 2021 . avoiding carbon leakage is not a justification to postpone full auctioning even in the light of the most recent data showing that no carbon leakage has occurred so far nor it is expected to represent a major problem with co2 price as high as 60 euro / ton .


### member states should partially compensate , in accordance with state aid rules , certain installations in sectors or sub - sectors which have been determined to be exposed to a significant risk of carbon leakage because of costs related to greenhouse gas emissions passed on in electricity prices . the protocol and accompanying decisions adopted by the conference of the parties in paris need to provide for the dynamic mobilisation of climate finance , technology transfer and capacity building for eligible parties , particularly those with least capabilities . public sector climate finance will continue to play an important role in mobilising resources after 2020 . therefore , auction revenues should also be used for climate financing actions in vulnerable third countries , including adaptation to the impacts of climate . the amount of climate finance to be mobilised will also depend on the ambition and quality of the proposed intended nationally determined contributions , subsequent investment plans and national adaptation planning processes . member states should also use auction revenues to promote skill formation and reallocation of labour affected by the transition of jobs in a decarbonising economy . ### the protocol and accompanying decisions adopted by the conference of the parties in paris need to provide for the dynamic mobilisation of climate finance , technology transfer and capacity building for eligible parties , particularly those with least capabilities . public sector climate finance will continue to play an important role in mobilising resources after 2020 . therefore , auction revenues should also be used for climate financing actions in vulnerable third countries , including adaptation to the impacts of climate . the amount of climate finance to be mobilised will also depend on the ambition and quality of the proposed intended nationally determined contributions , subsequent investment plans and national adaptation planning processes . member states should also use auction revenues to promote skill formation and reallocation of labour affected by the transition of jobs in a decarbonising economy .


### a modernisation fund should be established from 2% of the total eu ets allowances , and auctioned in accordance with the rules and modalities for auctions taking place on the common auction platform set out in regulation 1031 / 2010 . member states who in 2013 had a gdp per capita at market exchange rates of below 60% below the union average should be eligible for funding from the modernisation fund and derogate up to 2030 from the principle of full auctioning for electricity generation by using the option of free allocation in order to transparently promote real investments modernising their energy sector while avoiding distortions of the internal energy market . the rules for governing the modernisation fund should provide a coherent , comprehensive and transparent framework to ensure the most efficient implementation possible , taking into account the need for easy access by all participants . the function of the governance structure should be commensurate with the purpose of ensuring the appropriate use of the funds . that governance structure should be composed of an investment board and a management committee and due account should be taken of the expertise of the eib in the decision - making process unless support is provided to small projects through loans from a national promotional banks or through grants via a national programme sharing the objectives of the modernisation fund . investments financed from the fund should be proposed by the member states . to ensure that the investment needs in low income member states are adequately addressed , the distribution of funds will take into account in equal shares verified emissions and gdp criteria . the financial assistance from the modernisation fund could be provided through different forms . ### a modernisation fund should be established from 2% of the total eu ets allowances , and auctioned in accordance with the rules and modalities for auctions taking place on the common auction platform set out in regulation 1031 / 2010 . member states who in 2013 had a gdp per capita at market exchange rates of below 60% below the union average should be eligible for funding from the modernisation fund and derogate up to 2030 from the principle of full auctioning by using the option of free allocation in order to stimulate the introduction of renewables while avoiding any funding for fossil fuel based power plant . the rules for governing the modernisation fund should provide a coherent , comprehensive and transparent framework to ensure the most efficient implementation possible , taking into account the need for easy access by all participants . the function of the governance structure should be commensurate with the purpose of ensuring the appropriate use of the funds . that governance structure should be composed of an investment board and a management committee and due account should be taken of the expertise of the eib in the decision - making process unless support is provided to small projects through loans from a national promotional banks or through grants via a national programme sharing the objectives of the modernisation fund . investments financed from the fund should be proposed by the member states . to ensure that the investment needs in low income member states are adequately addressed , the distribution of funds will take into account in equal shares verified emissions and gdp criteria . the financial assistance from the modernisation fund could be provided through different forms .


### the main long - term incentive from this directive for the capture and storage of co2 , new renewable energy technologies and breakthrough innovation in low - carbon technologies and processes is the carbon price signal it creates and that allowances will not need to be surrendered for co2 emissions which are permanently stored or avoided . in addition , to supplement the resources already being used to accelerate demonstration of commercial ccs facilities and innovative renewable energy technologies , eu ets allowances should be used to provide guaranteed rewards for deployment of ccs facilities , new renewable energy technologies and industrial innovation in low - carbon technologies and processes in the union for co2 stored or avoided on a sufficient scale , provided an agreement on knowledge sharing is in place . the majority of this support should be dependent on verified avoidance of greenhouse gas emissions , while some support may be given when pre - determined milestones are reached taking into account the technology deployed . the maximum percentage of project costs to be supported may vary by category of project . ### the main long - term incentive from this directive for new renewable energy technologies and breakthrough innovation in low - carbon technologies and processes is the carbon price signal it creates and that allowances will not need to be surrendered for co2 emissions which are permanently avoided . in addition , to supplement the resources already being used to accelerate demonstration of innovative renewable energy technologies , eu ets allowances should be used to provide guaranteed rewards for deployment of new renewable energy technologies and industrial innovation in low - carbon technologies and processes in the union for co2 avoided on a sufficient scale , provided an agreement on knowledge sharing is in place . this support should be dependent on verified avoidance of greenhouse gas emissions . the maximum percentage of project costs to be supported may vary by category of project .