### (12) ‘low-carbon fuels’ means recycled carbon fuels as defined in article 2 of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous and liquid fuels the energy content of which is derived from low-carbon hydrogen , which meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70%. ### (12) ‘low-carbon fuels’ means recycled carbon fuels as defined in article 2 of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous and liquid fuels the energy content of which is derived from low-carbon hydrogen , which meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70% and waste gases as defined in article 2(11) of delegated regulation of the commission xx/xx on transitional union-wide rules for harmonised free allocation of emission allowances.


### (12) ‘low-carbon fuels’ means recycled carbon fuels as defined in article 2 of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous and liquid fuels the energy content of which is derived from low-carbon hydrogen , which meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70%. ### (12) ‘low-carbon fuels’ means recycled carbon fuels as defined in article 2 of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous and liquid fuels the energy content of which is derived from low-carbon hydrogen , which meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70% that is equal to that of ‘low-carbon hydrogen’ in point (10) of this article;


### (20) ‘hydrogen network’ means a network of pipelines used for the transport of hydrogen of a high grade of purity with a view to its delivery to customers , but not including supply; ### (20) ‘hydrogen network’ means a network of pipelines , both onshore and offshore , used for the transport of hydrogen of a high grade of purity with a view to its delivery to customers , but not including supply;


### (20) ‘hydrogen network’ means a network of pipelines used for the transport of hydrogen of a high grade of purity with a view to its delivery to customers , but not including supply; ### (20) ‘hydrogen network’ means a network of pipelines connected to the backbone transmission infrastructure used for the transport of hydrogen , but not including supply;


### 1. member states shall ensure the implementation of a system of regulated third party access to hydrogen networks based on published tariffs and applied objectively and without discrimination between any hydrogen network users. ### 1. member states shall ensure the implementation of a system of regulated third party access to hydrogen networks based on published tariffs and maintain quality standards for hydrogen. access shall be applied objectively and without discrimination between any hydrogen network users.


### 5. where negotiated access is used , regulatory authorities shall provide guidance to hydrogen network users on how negotiated tariffs will be affected when regulated third party access is introduced. ### 5. where negotiated access is used , regulatory authorities shall provide guidance to hydrogen network users on how negotiated tariffs will be affected when regulated third party access is introduced. at the date of entry into force of regulated third party access , hydrogen network users may opt to remain under a negotiated third-party access regime or to switch to a regulated third-party access. guidance shall be provided as well with regard to contractual terms and conditions agreed in hydrogen purchase agreements and capacity contracts.


### member states shall ensure the implementation of a system of regulated third party access to hydrogen storage , and line pack when technically and/or economically necessary for providing efficient access to the system for the supply of customers , as well as for the organisation of access to ancillary services , based on published tariffs and applied objectively and without discrimination between any hydrogen system users. member states shall ensure that those tariffs , or the methodologies underlying their calculation , are approved prior to their entry into force in accordance with article 72 by the regulatory authority. ### for the organisation of access to hydrogen storage and line pack when technically and/or economically necessary for providing efficient access to the system for the supply of customers , as well as for the organisation of access to ancillary services , based on published tariffs and applied objectively and without discrimination between any hydrogen system users , member states may choose either a negotiated or regulated access regime , or both. member states shall base their decision on the applicable access regime on an assessment of the level of competition in the hydrogen storage market , taking into account the technical characteristics of hydrogen storage. in case of a regulated access regime , member states shall ensure that those tariffs , or the methodologies underlying their calculation , are approved prior to their entry into force in accordance with article 72 by the regulatory authority.


### member states shall ensure the implementation of a system of regulated third party access to hydrogen storage , and line pack when technically and/or economically necessary for providing efficient access to the system for the supply of customers , as well as for the organisation of access to ancillary services , based on published tariffs and applied objectively and without discrimination between any hydrogen system users. member states shall ensure that those tariffs , or the methodologies underlying their calculation , are approved prior to their entry into force in accordance with article 72 by the regulatory authority. ### member states shall ensure the implementation of a system of negotiated or regulated third party access to hydrogen storage , and line pack when technically and/or economically necessary for providing efficient access to the system for the supply of customers , as well as for the organisation of access to ancillary services , based on published tariffs and applied objectively and without discrimination between any hydrogen system users. member states shall ensure if there is not a contractual basis that those tariffs , or the methodologies underlying their calculation , are approved prior to their entry into force in accordance with article 72 by the regulatory authority.


### 4. transmission system operators shall ensure efficient gas quality management in their facilities in line with applicable gas quality standards. ### 4. transmission system operators shall ensure efficient gas quality management in their facilities in line with applicable gas quality standards to meet the quality requirements of different end-use applications.


### 9. lng and storage system operators shall cooperate , within one member state and regionally , to ensure the most efficient use of facilities capacities and synergies between these facilities , taking into account system integrity and operation. ### 9. lng , transmission and storage system operators shall cooperate , within one member state and regionally , to ensure the most efficient use of facilities capacities and synergies between these facilities , taking into account system integrity and operation.


### 1. where the distribution system operator is part of a vertically integrated undertaking , it shall be independent at least in terms of its legal form , organisation and decision making from other activities not relating to distribution. those rules shall not create an obligation to separate the ownership of assets of the distribution system from the vertically integrated undertaking. ### 1. where the distribution system operator or the hydrogen distribution network is part of a vertically integrated undertaking , it shall be independent at least in terms of its legal form , organisation and decision making from other activities not relating to distribution or transmission. those rules shall not create an obligation to separate the ownership of assets of the distribution system from the vertically integrated undertaking.


### article 44 (1) shall not prevent the operation of a combined transmission , lng , storage and distribution system operator provided that the operator complies with article 54 (1) , or articles 55 and 56 , or chapter ix . ### this directive shall not prevent the operation of a combined transmission system , hydrogen network , lng system , hydrogen terminal , natural gas and hydrogen storage and distribution system operator provided that the operator complies with chapter ix .


### providing to the operator of other networks or systems with which its system is interconnected sufficient information to ensure the secure and efficient operation , coordinated development and interoperability of the interconnected system; ### providing to the operator of other networks or systems with which its system is interconnected sufficient information , including on hydrogen quality , to ensure the secure and efficient operation , coordinated development and interoperability of the interconnected system;


### 2. each hydrogen network operator shall build sufficient cross-border capacity to integrate european hydrogen infrastructure accommodating all economically reasonable and technically feasible demands for capacity and taking into account security of hydrogen supply. ### 2. each hydrogen network operator shall build sufficient cross-border capacity to integrate and to expand , upon requests of right to a grid connection submitted by final hydrogen customers , the european hydrogen infrastructure accommodating all economically reasonable and technically feasible demands for capacity and taking into account security of hydrogen supply. member states and the competent regulatory authority shall ensure that the hydrogen network operator realises the infrastructure investment requested by hydrogen priority sectors at the latest within three years from its application.


### 3. hydrogen network operators may be responsible for ensuring efficient hydrogen quality management in their networks in line with applicable hydrogen quality standards , where necessary for system management and subject to the approval of the regulatory authority. ### 3. hydrogen network operators shall be responsible for ensuring efficient hydrogen quality management in their networks in line with applicable hydrogen quality standards , to meet the quality requirements of different end-use applications.


### 3. such intergovernmental agreement may contain , as appropriate , rules specifying the implementation of the requirements of third-party access , tariff regulation and on the unbundling of the operator of the hydrogen interconnector , as well as rules on the certification of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen , including rules ensuring the collection of required data and the application of the criteria for accounting hydrogen produced from electricity as renewable hydrogen. ### 3. such intergovernmental agreement may contain , as appropriate , rules specifying the implementation of the requirements of third-party access , tariff regulation and on the unbundling of the operator of the hydrogen interconnector , as well as rules on the certification of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen , including rules ensuring the collection of required data and the application of the criteria for accounting hydrogen produced from electricity as renewable hydrogen or for accounting low-carbon hydrogen.


### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website . ### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators and all hydrogen transmission network shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state for gas and hydrogen. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan and to electricity transmission system operators for developing their respective national plans. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the hydrogen networks as well as the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website .


### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website . ### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators and all hydrogen transmission network operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan for gas and hydrogen per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the hydrogen networks as well as the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website .


### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website . ### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators and hydrogen priority sectors shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas and hydrogen system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website .


### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website . ### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure , electricity operators and sectors of hydrogen priority shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas and hydrogen system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website .


### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website . ### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state for the gas sector. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website .


### contain the main infrastructure that needs to be built or upgraded over the next ten years; ### contain the main infrastructure that needs to be built or upgraded over the next ten years , including infrastructure developed by distribution system operators to enable reverse flows to the transmission network;


### contain all the investments already decided and identify new investments which have to be executed in the next three years; ### contain all the investments already decided and identify new investments which have to be executed in the next three years including investments which are to be realised based on the notification of identified sectors of prioritisation;


### contain all the investments already decided and identify new investments which have to be executed in the next three years; ### contain all the investments already decided and identify new investments which have to be executed in the next three years including investments to be realised based on the notification of identified priority sectors;


### include information on infrastructure that can or will be decommissioned; and ### include information on infrastructure that can or will be repurposed for the transport of hydrogen;


### be based on a joint scenario framework developed between the relevant infrastructure operators , including relevant distribution system operators , of at least gas and electricity; ### be based on joint scenarios developed between the relevant infrastructure operators , including relevant distribution system operators , of at least gas , hydrogen , electricity and district heating , to be used as a basis for the respective network modelling and taking into account the joint scenarios from the union-wide ten-year network development plan;


### be based on a joint scenario framework developed between the relevant infrastructure operators , including relevant distribution system operators , of at least gas and electricity; ### be based on a joint scenario framework developed between the transmission system operators , where other relevant infrastructure operators , including relevant distribution system operators , of at least gas and electricity are invited to provide input through a consultation process.


### be based on a joint scenario framework developed between the relevant infrastructure operators , including relevant distribution system operators , of at least gas and electricity; ### be based on a joint scenario framework developed between the relevant infrastructure operators , including relevant distribution system operators , of at least gas , hydrogen and electricity;


### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets . ### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operators and the hydrogen transmission network operators shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , in particular , repurposing of infrastructure as well as the use of demand response , and expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator and the hydrogen transmission network operators shall , jointly with the electricity transmission system operator , assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the suitable location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets. the transmission system operator and the hydrogen transmission system operator shall also make reasonable assumptions about the evolution of the production , supply , consumption and exchanges with other countries.


### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets . ### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operators and the hydrogen transmission network operators shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , in particular , repurposing of infrastructure as well as the use of demand response , and expected consumption , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operators and the hydrogen transmission network operators shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets. the transmission system operator shall also make reasonable assumptions about the evolution of the production , supply , consumption and exchanges with other countries.


### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets . ### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response enhancing the creation of new hydrogen lead markets , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , the prioritisation of industrial users having the highest greenhouse gases emissions abatement potential per tonne of consumed hydrogen , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets .


### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets . ### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response which enhances the creation of new hydrogen lead markets , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , the priorisation of the industrial users which have the highest greenhouse gases emission abatement potential , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets .


### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets . ### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the natural gas transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the natural gas transmission system operator together with the electricity transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the most suitable location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets .


### 5. 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 most recent union wide simulation of disruption scenarios carried out by the entso for gas under article 7 of regulation (eu) 2017/1938 , with the regional and national risk assessments and the non-binding union -wide ten-year network development plan ( union -wide network development plan) referred to in article 30(1) , point (b) , of regulation (eu) 2019/943 . if any doubt arises as to the consistency with the union -wide network development plan , the regulatory authority shall consult acer . the regulatory authority may require the transmission system operator to amend its ten-year network development plan. ### 5. 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 most recent union wide simulation of disruption scenarios carried out by the entsog&h under article 7 of regulation (eu) 2017/1938 , with the regional and national risk assessments and the non-binding union -wide ten-year network development plan ( union -wide network development plan) referred to in article 30(1) , point (b) , of regulation (eu) 2019/943 . if any doubt arises as to the consistency with the union -wide network development plan , the regulatory authority shall consult acer . the regulatory authority may require the transmission system operator or the hydrogen transmission network operator to amend its ten-year network development plan.


### 7. in circumstances where the independent system operator or independent transmission operator , other than for overriding reasons beyond its control , does not execute an investment , which , under the ten-year network development plan , was to be executed in the following three years , member states shall ensure that the regulatory authority is required to take at least one of the following measures to ensure that the investment in question is made if such investment is still relevant on the basis of the most recent ten-year network development plan: ### 7. in circumstances where the transmission system operator or the hydrogen transmission network operator , other than for overriding reasons beyond its control , does not execute an investment , which , under the ten-year network development plan , was to be executed in the following three years , member states shall ensure that the regulatory authority is required to take at least one of the following measures to ensure that the investment in question is made if such investment is still relevant on the basis of the most recent ten-year network development plan:


### to require the transmission system operator to execute the investments in question; ### to require the transmission system operator or the hydrogen transmission network operator to execute the investments in question;


### to oblige the transmission system operator to accept a capital increase to finance the necessary investments and allow independent investors to participate in the capital. ### to oblige the transmission system operator or the hydrogen transmission network operator to accept a capital increase to finance the necessary investments and allow independent investors to participate in the capital.


### where the regulatory authority has made use of its powers under point (b) the first subparagraph , it may oblige the transmission system operator to agree to one or more of the following: ### where the regulatory authority has made use of its powers under point (b) the first subparagraph , it may oblige the transmission system operator or the hydrogen transmission network operator to agree to one or more of the following:


### the transmission system operator shall provide the investors with all information needed to realise the investment , shall connect new assets to the transmission network and shall generally make its best efforts to facilitate the implementation of the investment project. ### the transmission system operator or the hydrogen transmission network operator shall provide the investors with all information needed to realise the investment , shall connect new assets to the transmission network and shall generally make its best efforts to facilitate the implementation of the investment project.


### 1. hydrogen network operators shall submit to the regulatory authority , at regular intervals as determined by that authority , an overview of the hydrogen network infrastructure they aim to develop. that overview shall in particular: ### 1. until no later than 1 january 2031 , hydrogen transmission network operators shall submit to the regulatory authority , at regular intervals as determined by that authority , an overview of the hydrogen network infrastructure they aim to develop. that overview shall in particular:


### include information on capacity needs , both in volume and duration , as negotiated between network users and hydrogen network operators; ### include information on energy and capacity needs , both in volume and duration , as negotiated between network users , including end-users and hydrogen network operators;


### include information on the extent to which repurposed natural gas pipelines will be used for the transport of hydrogen; ### include information on the extent to which repurposed natural gas pipelines will be used for the transport of hydrogen , especially to rapidly deliver hydrogen to energy-intensive industries , including small and medium-sized enterprises , with the highest greenhouse gas abatement potential that have no other options to decarbonise;


### be in line with the integrated national energy and climate plan and its updates , and with the integrated national energy and climate reports submitted in accordance with regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and support the climate-neutrality objective set out in article 2(1) of regulation (eu) 2021/1119. ### be in line with the integrated national energy and climate plan and its updates , with the integrated national energy and climate reports submitted in accordance with regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , support the climate-neutrality objective set out in article 2(1) of regulation (eu)2021/1119 and ensure hydrogen supply to energy-intensive industries , including small and medium-sized enterprises , with the highest greenhouse gas abatement potential that have no other options to decarbonise;


### be in line with the integrated national energy and climate plan and its updates , and with the integrated national energy and climate reports submitted in accordance with regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and support the climate-neutrality objective set out in article 2(1) of regulation (eu) 2021/1119. ### be in line with the integrated national energy and climate plan and its updates , and with the integrated national energy and climate reports submitted in accordance with regulation(eu) 2018/1999 and support the climate-neutrality objective set out in article2(1) of regulation (eu) 2021/1119 and be consistent with the union-wide ten-year network development plan for gas and hydrogen as set out in article 23[recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx].


### 3. the regulatory authority shall examine the overview. it shall take the overall energy-economic necessity of the hydrogen network into account in this examination as well as the joint scenario framework developed under article 51 (2) , point e). ### 3. the regulatory authority shall examine the overview. it shall take the overall energy-economic necessity of the hydrogen network into account in this examination as well as the joint scenarios developed under article 51 (2) , point e).


### 5. hydrogen network operators shall publish on a regular basis a joint report on the development of the hydrogen system based on the overview submitted to the regulatory authority. they shall take the examination of the regulatory authority under paragraph 4 into account. ### 5. hydrogen network operators shall publish at least every two years a joint report on the development of the hydrogen system based on the overview submitted to the regulatory authority. they shall take the examination of the regulatory authority under paragraph 4 into account. the regulatory authority may issue an opinion on the report , assess its consistency with the union-wide ten-year-development plan , and recommend amendments.


### 6. member states may decide to apply the requirements pursuant to article 51 to hydrogen network operators. ### 6. member states may decide to apply the requirements pursuant to article 51 to hydrogen network operators. as from 1 january 2031 an integrated network development plan for gas and hydrogen pursuant to the process set out in article 51 shall be mandatory for hydrogen transmission network operators and transmission system operators. if member states opt for a system of regulated third party access to hydrogen networks in accordance with article 31 , the requirements pursuant to article 51 shall apply immediately.


### 1. where a hydrogen interconnector project is included in the eu-wide ten-year network development plan as referred to in article 29 of [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021)xxx] and is not a project of common interest as referred to in [chapter ii and annex i point 3 of regulation xxx on guidelines for trans-european energy infrastructure] , adjacent and affected hydrogen network operators shall design a project plan , including a request for cross-border cost allocation , and submit it jointly to the concerned regulatory authorities for a joint approval. ### 1. where a hydrogen interconnector project is included in the eu-wide ten-year network development plan as referred to in article 29 of [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021)xxx] and is not a project of common interest as referred to in [chapter ii and annex i point 3 of regulation xxx on guidelines for trans-european energy infrastructure] , adjacent and affected hydrogen network operators shall design a project plan , including an assessment for cross-border cost allocation , and submit it jointly to the concerned regulatory authorities for a joint approval.


### 2. the project plan and request for cross-border cost allocation shall be accompanied by a project-specific cost-benefit analysis , taking into account benefits beyond the borders of member states concerned , and by a business plan evaluating the financial viability of the project , which shall include a financing solution and specify whether the hydrogen network operators involved agree on a substantiated proposal for a cross-border cost allocation. ### 2. the project plan and assessment for cross-border cost allocation shall be accompanied by a project-specific cost-benefit analysis , taking into account benefits beyond the borders of member states concerned , and by a business plan evaluating the financial viability of the project , which shall include a financing solution and specify whether the hydrogen network operators involved agree on a substantiated proposal for a cross-border cost allocation.


### 5. after 31 december 2030 , all affected hydrogen network operators shall negotiate a system of financial compensation to ensure financing for cross-border hydrogen infrastructure. while developing that , hydrogen network operators shall conduct an extensive consultation process involving all relevant market participants. ### deleted


### 6. the hydrogen network operators concerned shall agree on the system of financial compensation within 3 years and by 31 december 2033. if no agreement is reached within that period , the involved regulatory authorities shall decide jointly within 2 years. where the relevant regulatory authorities cannot reach a joint agreement within 2 years , acer shall take a decision , following the process pursuant to article 6(10) in regulation (eu) 2019/942. ### deleted


### 7. the system of financial compensation shall be implemented in line with article 72(1) , point (b). ### deleted


### 8. for the transition to a system of financial compensation mechanism , existing capacity contracts shall not be affected by the established financial compensation mechanism. ### deleted


### 9. further details required to implement the process set out in this article , including required processes and time frames , process for reviewing and if necessary amending the compensation mechanism allowing taking into account tariff evolution and the development of the hydrogen networks , shall be set in a network code established on the basis of article 54 of [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021)xxx]. ### deleted


### 56 unbundling of transmission system owners , storage system and hydrogen storage operators ### 56 unbundling of transmission system owners , hydrogen network owners , storage system and hydrogen storage operators


### 1. member states shall ensure that from [entry of transposition period+1year] hydrogen network operators are unbundled in accordance with the rules for natural gas transmission system operators set out in article 56(1) to (3). ### 1. member states shall ensure that from [entry of transposition period+1year] hydrogen network operators are unbundled in accordance with the rules for natural gas transmission system operators set out in sections 1 , 2 and 3 of chapter ix


### 3. where on [entry into force] the hydrogen network belonged to a vertically integrated undertaking , a member state may decide not to apply paragraph 1. in such case , the member state concerned shall designate an independent hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent system operators for natural gas set out article 55. hydrogen network operators and transmission system operators for gas unbundled in accordance with article 54(1) can act as independent hydrogen network operator , subject to the requirements pursuant to article 63. ### deleted


### 4. until 31 december 2030 , member state may designate an integrated hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent transmission operators for natural gas set out in section 3 of chapter ix. such designation shall expire by 31 december 2030 at the latest. ### 4. member state may designate an integrated hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent transmission operators for natural gas set out in section 3 of chapter ix.


### 4. until 31 december 2030 , member state may designate an integrated hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent transmission operators for natural gas set out in section 3 of chapter ix. such designation shall expire by 31 december 2030 at the latest. ### 4. member state may designate an integrated hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent transmission operators for natural gas set out in section 3 of chapter ix. such designation shall expire by 31 december 2030 at the latest.


### 4. until 31 december 2030 , member state may designate an integrated hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent transmission operators for natural gas set out in section 3 of chapter ix. such designation shall expire by 31 december 2030 at the latest. ### 4. member state may designate an integrated hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent transmission operators for natural gas set out in section 3 of chapter ix , independently from the model applied for natural gas and electricity sectors.


### facilitating access to the network for new production capacity , in particular removing barriers that could prevent access for new market entrants and of gas and hydrogen from renewable sources; ### promoting connection and facilitating access to the network for new production capacity , in particular removing barriers that could prevent connection and access for new market entrants and of gas and hydrogen from renewable sources;


### examining and providing an assessment of the overview submitted by hydrogen network operators on the development of hydrogen transport infrastructure in accordance with article 52 , taking the overall energy-economic necessity of the hydrogen network into account in this examination as well as the joint scenario framework under the article 51 (2) , point (e) on network development planning; ### examining and providing an assessment of the overview submitted by hydrogen network operators on the development of hydrogen transport infrastructure in accordance with article 52 , taking the overall energy-economic necessity of the hydrogen network into account in this examination as well as the joint scenarios under the article 51 (2) , point (e) on network development planning;


### monitoring the time taken by natural gas transmission and distribution system operators or hydrogen network operators to make connections and repairs; ### monitoring the time taken by natural gas transmission and distribution system operators or hydrogen network operators to assess connection requests , make connections and repairs , including requests by , and connections and repairs for renewable gas producers and end-users;


### this directive shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union. ### this directive shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union.


### the disclosure of the share of renewable gas purchased by the final customers shall be done by using guarantees of origin. ### the disclosure of the share of renewable and low-carbon gas purchased by the final customers shall be done by using guarantees of origin.


### (1) the commission communication of 19 february 2020 , entitled “shaping europe’s digital future”16 announces a revision of regulation (eu) no 910/2014 of the european parliament and of the council with the aim of improving its effectiveness , extend its benefits to the private sector and promote trusted digital identities for all europeans. ### (1) the commission communication of 19 february 2020 , entitled “shaping europe’s digital future”16 announces a revision of regulation (eu) no 910/2014 of the european parliament and of the council with the aim of improving its effectiveness and in response to technological developments since its adoption in 2014 while at the same time extending its benefits to the private sector and promoting trusted digital identities for all europeans.


### (1) the commission communication of 19 february 2020 , entitled “shaping europe’s digital future”16announces a revision of regulation (eu) no 910/2014 of the european parliament and of the council with the aim of improving its effectiveness , extend its benefits to the private sector and promote trusted digital identities for all europeans. ### (1) the commission communication of 19 february 2020 , entitled “shaping europe’s digital future”16 announces a revision of regulation (eu) no 910/2014 of the european parliament and of the council with the aim of improving its effectiveness , extend its benefits to the private sector and to all citizens and promote trusted digital identities for all europeans , in compliance with eu values.


### (1) the commission communication of 19 february 2020 , entitled “shaping europe’s digital future”16 announces a revision of regulation (eu) no 910/2014 of the european parliament and of the council with the aim of improving its effectiveness , extend its benefits to the private sector and promote trusted digital identities for all europeans. ### (1) the commission communication of 19 february 2020 , entitled “shaping europe’s digital future”16 announces a revision of regulation (eu) no 910/2014 of the european parliament and of the council with the aim of improving its effectiveness , extend its benefits to the private sector and promote trusted digital identities for all citizens and residents , in light of , inter alia , technological developments and uneven progress achieved to date between member states.


### (4) a more harmonised approach to digital identification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify online in a convenient and uniform way across the union. everyone should be able to securely access public and private services relying on an improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as a university degree legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid at european level. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from a clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a given format. ### (4) a more harmonised approach to electronic identification and verification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify online in a convenient , trustworthy and uniform way across the union. everyone should be able to securely access public and private services relying on an improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as an academic qualification legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union , a professional qualification or a mandate to represent a company. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid and legally recognised across the union. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from a clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a given format.


### (4) a more harmonised approach to digital identification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify online in a convenient and uniform way across the union. everyone should be able to securely access public and private services relying on an improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as a university degree legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid at european level. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from a clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a given format. ### (4) a more harmonised approach to digital identification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify online in a convenient and uniform way across the union. everyone should be able to securely access public and private services relying on a harmonised and improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as a university degree legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid at european level. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from an accessible , harmonised , clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a unanimously accepted format.


### (4) a more harmonised approach to digital identification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify online in a convenient and uniform way across the union. everyone should be able to securely access public and private services relying on an improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as a university degree legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid at european level. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from a clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a given format. ### (4) a more harmonised approach to digital identification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions or , in some member states , lack of them , and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify online in a safe , convenient , accessible and harmonised way , characterised by user-friendliness and cutting edge solutions , across the union. everyone should be able to easily and securely access public and private services relying on an improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as a university degree or other educational attainments legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid at european level. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from a clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a given format.


### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to share securely data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , user convenience and wide usability. member states should ensure equal access to digital identification to all their nationals and residents. ### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to share securely data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , user convenience and wide usability. member states should ensure equal access to digital identification to all their nationals and residents , including vulnerable persons , such as persons with disabilities , persons who experience functional limitations and persons with limited access to digital technologies and taking into account insufficient digital literacy.


### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to share securely data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , user convenience and wide usability. member states should ensure equal access to digital identification to all their nationals and residents. ### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by a competent authorities in member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to share securely data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , user convenience and wide usability that embrace technological innovation. member states should ensure equal access to and usage of digital identification to all their nationals and residents.


### (6) regulation (eu) no 2016/67919 applies to the processing of personal data in the implementation of this regulation. therefore , this regulation should lay down specific safeguards to prevent providers of electronic identification means and electronic attestation of attributes from combining personal data from other services with the personal data relating to the services falling within the scope of this regulation. ### (6) regulation (eu) no 2016/67919 applies to the processing of personal data in the implementation of this regulation. therefore , this regulation should lay down specific safeguards to prevent providers of electronic identification means and electronic attestation of attributes from combining personal data from other services with the personal data relating to the services falling within the scope of this regulation. data protection by design and by default , as well as data minimisation , as foreseen in regulation (eu) 2016/679 , should be leading principles in the set-up of this european digital identity wallet.


### (6) regulation (eu) no 2016/67919 applies to the processing of personal data in the implementation of this regulation. therefore , this regulation should lay down specific safeguards to prevent providers of electronic identification means and electronic attestation of attributes from combining personal data from other services with the personal data relating to the services falling within the scope of this regulation. ### (6) regulation (eu) no 2016/67919 applies to the processing of personal data in the implementation of this regulation. therefore , this regulation should lay down specific safeguards to prevent providers of electronic identification means and electronic attestation of attributes from combining personal data from their other unrelated services with the personal data relating to the services falling within the scope of this regulation.


### (5) to support the competitiveness of european businesses , online service providers should be able to rely on digital identity solutions recognised across the union , irrespective of the member state in which they have been issued , thus benefiting from a harmonised european approach to trust , security and interoperability. users and service providers alike should be able to benefit from the same legal value provided to electronic attestations of attributes across the union. ### (5) to support innovation and the competitiveness of european businesses at international level also , online service providers should be able to rely on digital identity solutions recognised across the union , irrespective of the member state in which they have been issued , thus benefiting from a harmonised european approach to trust , security , uniformity and interoperability. users and service providers alike should be able to benefit from the same legal value provided to electronic attestations of attributes across the union , thereby strengthening the overall regulatory and supervisory framework for trust service provision.


### (5) to support the competitiveness of european businesses , online service providers should be able to rely on digital identity solutions recognised across the union , irrespective of the member state in which they have been issued , thus benefiting from a harmonised european approach to trust , security and interoperability. users and service providers alike should be able to benefit from the same legal value provided to electronic attestations of attributes across the union. ### (5) to support the competitiveness of european businesses and the economy overall , online service providers should be able to rely on digital identity solutions recognised across the union , irrespective of the member state in which they have been issued , thus benefiting from a harmonised european approach to trust , security and interoperability. users and service providers alike should be able to benefit from the same legal value provided to electronic attestations of attributes across the union.


### (9) all european digital identity wallets should allow users to electronically identify and authenticate online and offline across borders for accessing a wide range of public and private services. without prejudice to member states’ prerogatives as regards the identification of their nationals and residents , wallets can also serve the institutional needs of public administrations , international organisations and the union’s institutions , bodies , offices and agencies. offline use would be important in many sectors , including in the health sector where services are often provided through face-to-face interaction and eprescriptions should be able to rely on qr-codes or similar technologies to verify authenticity. relying on the level of assurance “high” , the european digital identity wallets should benefit from the potential offered by tamper-proof solutions such as secure elements , to comply with the security requirements under this regulation. the european digital identity wallets should also allow users to create and use qualified electronic signatures and seals which are accepted across the eu. to achieve simplification and cost reduction benefits to persons and businesses across the eu , including by enabling powers of representation and e-mandates , member states should issue european digital identity wallets relying on common standards to ensure seamless interoperability and a high level of security. only member states’ competent authorities can provide a high degree of confidence in establishing the identity of a person and therefore provide assurance that the person claiming or asserting a particular identity is in fact the person he or she claims to be. it is therefore necessary that the european digital identity wallets rely on the legal identity of citizens , other residents or legal entities. trust in the european digital identity wallets would be enhanced by the fact that issuing parties are required to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security commensurate to the risks raised for the rights and freedoms of the natural persons , in line with regulation (eu) 2016/679. ### (9) all european digital identity wallets should allow users to electronically identify and authenticate online and offline across borders for accessing a wide range of public and private services. without prejudice to member states’ prerogatives as regards the identification of their nationals and residents , wallets can also serve the institutional needs of public administrations , international organisations and the union’s institutions , bodies , offices and agencies. offline use would be important in many sectors , including in the health sector where services are often provided through face-to-face interaction and eprescriptions should be able to rely on qr-codes or similar technologies to verify authenticity. relying on the level of assurance “high” , the european digital identity wallets should benefit from the potential offered by tamper-proof solutions such as secure elements , to comply with the security requirements under this regulation. the european digital identity wallets should also allow users to create and use qualified electronic signatures and seals which are accepted across the eu. the use of the wallets for identification and authentication purposes does not affect any formal requirements applicable under national or union law for the conclusion and validity of contracts or other legal or procedural formal requirements. to achieve simplification and cost reduction benefits to persons and businesses across the eu , including by enabling powers of representation and e-mandates , member states should issue european digital identity wallets relying on common standards to ensure seamless interoperability and a high level of security. only member states’ competent authorities can provide a high degree of confidence in establishing the identity of a person and therefore provide assurance that the person claiming or asserting a particular identity is in fact the person he or she claims to be. it is therefore necessary that the european digital identity wallets rely on the legal identity of citizens , other residents or legal entities. trust in the european digital identity wallets would be enhanced by the fact that issuing parties are required to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security commensurate to the risks raised for the rights and freedoms of the natural persons , in line with regulation (eu) 2016/679.


### (9) all european digital identity wallets should allow users to electronically identify and authenticate online and offline across borders for accessing a wide range of public and private services. without prejudice to member states’ prerogatives as regards the identification of their nationals and residents , wallets can also serve the institutional needs of public administrations , international organisations and the union’s institutions , bodies , offices and agencies. offline use would be important in many sectors , including in the health sector where services are often provided through face-to-face interaction and eprescriptions should be able to rely on qr-codes or similar technologies to verify authenticity. relying on the level of assurance “high” , the european digital identity wallets should benefit from the potential offered by tamper-proof solutions such as secure elements , to comply with the security requirements under this regulation. the european digital identity wallets should also allow users to create and use qualified electronic signatures and seals which are accepted across the eu. to achieve simplification and cost reduction benefits to persons and businesses across the eu , including by enabling powers of representation and e-mandates , member states should issue european digital identity wallets relying on common standards to ensure seamless interoperability and a high level of security. only member states’ competent authorities can provide a high degree of confidence in establishing the identity of a person and therefore provide assurance that the person claiming or asserting a particular identity is in fact the person he or she claims to be. it is therefore necessary that the european digital identity wallets rely on the legal identity of citizens , other residents or legal entities. trust in the european digital identity wallets would be enhanced by the fact that issuing parties are required to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security commensurate to the risks raised for the rights and freedoms of the natural persons , in line with regulation (eu) 2016/679. ### (9) all european digital identity wallets should allow users to electronically identify and authenticate online and , where feasible and impossible to use online authentication , offline across borders for accessing a wide range of public and private services. without prejudice to member states’ prerogatives as regards the identification of their nationals and residents , wallets can also serve the institutional needs of public administrations , international organisations and the union’s institutions , bodies , offices and agencies. offline use may be relevant in some sectors. relying on the level of assurance “high” , the european digital identity wallets should benefit from the potential offered by tamper-proof software and other solutions such as secure elements , to comply with the security requirements under this regulation. the european digital identity wallets should also allow users to create and use qualified electronic signatures and seals which are accepted across the eu. to achieve simplification and cost reduction benefits to persons and businesses across the eu , including by enabling powers of representation and e-mandates , member states should issue european digital identity wallets relying on common standards to ensure seamless interoperability and a high level of security. only member states’ competent authorities can provide a high degree of confidence in establishing the identity of a person and therefore provide assurance that the person claiming or asserting a particular identity is in fact the person he or she claims to be. it is therefore necessary that the european digital identity wallets rely on the legal identity of citizens , other residents or legal entities. trust in the european digital identity wallets would be enhanced by the fact that issuing parties are required to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security commensurate to the risks raised for the rights and freedoms of the natural persons , in line with regulation (eu) 2016/679.


### (9) all european digital identity wallets should allow users to electronically identify and authenticate online and offline across borders for accessing a wide range of public and private services. without prejudice to member states’ prerogatives as regards the identification of their nationals and residents , wallets can also serve the institutional needs of public administrations , international organisations and the union’s institutions , bodies , offices and agencies. offline use would be important in many sectors , including in the health sector where services are often provided through face-to-face interaction and eprescriptions should be able to rely on qr-codes or similar technologies to verify authenticity. relying on the level of assurance “high” , the european digital identity wallets should benefit from the potential offered by tamper-proof solutions such as secure elements , to comply with the security requirements under this regulation. the european digital identity wallets should also allow users to create and use qualified electronic signatures and seals which are accepted across the eu. to achieve simplification and cost reduction benefits to persons and businesses across the eu , including by enabling powers of representation and e-mandates , member states should issue european digital identity wallets relying on common standards to ensure seamless interoperability and a high level of security. only member states’ competent authorities can provide a high degree of confidence in establishing the identity of a person and therefore provide assurance that the person claiming or asserting a particular identity is in fact the person he or she claims to be. it is therefore necessary that the european digital identity wallets rely on the legal identity of citizens , other residents or legal entities. trust in the european digital identity wallets would be enhanced by the fact that issuing parties are required to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security commensurate to the risks raised for the rights and freedoms of the natural persons , in line with regulation (eu) 2016/679. ### (9) all european digital identity wallets should allow users to electronically identify and authenticate across borders for accessing a wide range of public and private services. without prejudice to member states’ prerogatives as regards the identification of their nationals and residents , wallets can also serve the institutional needs of public administrations , international organisations and the union’s institutions , bodies , offices and agencies. offline use would be important in many sectors , including in the health sector where services are often provided through face-to-face interaction and eprescriptions should be able to rely on qr-codes or similar technologies to verify authenticity. relying on the level of assurance “high” , the european digital identity wallets should benefit from the potential offered by tamper-proof solutions such as secure elements , to comply with the security requirements under this regulation. the european digital identity wallets should also allow users to create and use qualified electronic signatures and seals which are accepted across the eu. to achieve simplification and cost reduction benefits to persons and businesses across the eu , including by enabling powers of representation and e-mandates , member states should issue european digital identity wallets relying on common standards to ensure seamless interoperability and a high level of security. only member states’ competent authorities can provide a high degree of confidence in establishing the identity of a person and therefore provide assurance that the person claiming or asserting a particular identity is in fact the person he or she claims to be. it is therefore necessary that the european digital identity wallets rely on the legal identity of citizens , other residents or legal entities. trust in the european digital identity wallets would be enhanced by the fact that issuing parties are required to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security commensurate to the risks raised for the rights and freedoms of the natural persons , in line with regulation (eu) 2016/679.


### (10) in order to achieve a high level of security and trustworthiness , this regulation establishes the requirements for european digital identity wallets. the conformity of european digital identity wallets with those requirements should be certified by accredited public or private sector bodies designated by member states. relying on a certification scheme based on the availability of commonly agreed standards with member states should ensure a high level of trust and interoperability. certification should in particular rely on the relevant european cybersecurity certifications schemes established pursuant to regulation (eu) 2019/88120. such certification should be without prejudice to certification as regards personal data processing pursuant to regulation (ec) 2016/679 ### (10) in order to achieve a high level of security , trust , accessibility and trustworthiness , this regulation establishes the requirements for european digital identity wallets. the conformity of european digital identity wallets with those requirements should be certified by accredited public or private sector bodies designated by member states. relying on a certification scheme based on the availability of commonly agreed standards with member states should ensure a high level of trust , security , accessibility and interoperability. certification should in particular rely on the relevant european cybersecurity certifications schemes established pursuant to regulation (eu) 2019/88120. such certification should be without prejudice to certification as regards personal data processing pursuant to regulation (ec) 2016/679


### (10) in order to achieve a high level of security and trustworthiness , this regulation establishes the requirements for european digital identity wallets. the conformity of european digital identity wallets with those requirements should be certified by accredited public or private sector bodies designated by member states. relying on a certification scheme based on the availability of commonly agreed standards with member states should ensure a high level of trust and interoperability. certification should in particular rely on the relevant european cybersecurity certifications schemes established pursuant to regulation (eu) 2019/88120 . such certification should be without prejudice to certification as regards personal data processing pursuant to regulation (ec) 2016/679 ### (10) in order to achieve a high level of security and trustworthiness , this regulation establishes the requirements for european digital identity wallets. the conformity of european digital identity wallets with those requirements should be certified by accredited public or private sector bodies designated by member states. relying on a certification scheme based on the availability of the latest commonly agreed standards with member states should ensure a high level of trust and interoperability. certification should in particular rely on the relevant european cybersecurity certifications schemes established pursuant to regulation (eu) 2019/88120 . such certification should be without prejudice to certification as regards personal data processing pursuant to regulation (ec) 2016/679


### (11) european digital identity wallets should ensure the highest level of security for the personal data used for authentication irrespective of whether such data is stored locally or on cloud-based solutions , taking into account the different levels of risk. using biometrics to authenticate is one of the identifications methods providing a high level of confidence , in particular when used in combination with other elements of authentication. since biometrics represents a unique characteristic of a person , the use of biometrics requires organisational and security measures , commensurate to the risk that such processing may entail to the rights and freedoms of natural persons and in accordance with regulation 2016/679. ### (11) european digital identity wallets should ensure the highest level of security for the personal data used for authentication irrespective of whether such data is stored locally or on cloud-based solutions , taking into account the different levels of risk. using biometrics to authenticate , in addition to being an easy authentication means , is one of the identifications methods providing a high level of confidence and security , in particular when used in combination with other elements of authentication. since biometrics represents a unique characteristic of a person , the use of biometrics requires organisational and security measures , commensurate to the risk that such processing may entail to the rights and freedoms of natural persons and in accordance with regulation 2016/679.


### (11) european digital identity wallets should ensure the highest level of security for the personal data used for authentication irrespective of whether such data is stored locally or on cloud-based solutions , taking into account the different levels of risk. using biometrics to authenticate is one of the identifications methods providing a high level of confidence , in particular when used in combination with other elements of authentication. since biometrics represents a unique characteristic of a person , the use of biometrics requires organisational and security measures , commensurate to the risk that such processing may entail to the rights and freedoms of natural persons and in accordance with regulation 2016/679. ### (11) european digital identity wallets should ensure the highest level of security for the personal data used for authentication irrespective of whether such data is stored locally or on cloud-based solutions , taking into account the different levels of risk. using biometrics to authenticate is one of the identifications methods providing a high level of confidence , when used in combination with two factor of authentication. since biometrics represents a unique characteristic of a person , the use of biometrics requires organisational and security measures , commensurate to the risk that such processing may entail to the rights and freedoms of natural persons and in accordance with regulation 2016/679.


### (12) to ensure that the european digital identity framework is open to innovation , technological development and future-proof , member states should be encouraged to set-up jointly sandboxes to test innovative solutions in a controlled and secure environment in particular to improve the functionality , protection of personal data , security and interoperability of the solutions and to inform future updates of technical references and legal requirements. this environment should foster the inclusion of european small and medium enterprises , start-ups and individual innovators and researchers. ### (12) to ensure that the european digital identity framework is genuinely facilitating the transition of the union to a digital single market and is open to innovation , technological development and future-proof , especially regarding security , member states should be encouraged to set-up jointly safe sandboxes to test innovative solutions in a controlled and secure environment in particular to improve the functionality , effective protection of personal data , security and interoperability of the solutions and to inform future updates of technical references and legal requirements. this environment should foster the inclusion of european small and medium enterprises , start-ups and individual innovators and researchers , without subjecting them to additional administrative and financial burdens.


### (12) to ensure that the european digital identity framework is open to innovation , technological development and future-proof , member states should be encouraged to set-up jointly sandboxes to test innovative solutions in a controlled and secure environment in particular to improve the functionality , protection of personal data , security and interoperability of the solutions and to inform future updates of technical references and legal requirements. this environment should foster the inclusion of european small and medium enterprises , start-ups and individual innovators and researchers. ### (12) to ensure that the european digital identity framework is open to innovation , technological development and future-proof , member states should be encouraged to set-up jointly sandboxes to test innovative solutions in a controlled and secure environment in particular to improve the functionality , protection of personal data , security and interoperability of the solutions and to inform future updates of technical references and legal requirements. this environment should foster the inclusion of micro , small and medium enterprises , start-ups , tech sector more broadly as well as individual innovators and researchers. this should also facilitate avoidance of lock-ins and development of outdated solutions.


### (14) the process of notification of electronic identification schemes should be simplified and accelerated to promote the access to convenient , trusted , secure and innovative authentication and identification solutions and , where relevant , to encourage private identity providers to offer electronic identification schemes to member state’s authorities for notification as national electronic identity card schemes under regulation 910/2014. ### (14) the process of notification of electronic identification schemes should be streamlined , simplified and accelerated to promote the access to convenient , trusted , secure and innovative authentication and identification solutions and , where relevant , to encourage private identity providers to offer electronic identification schemes to member state’s authorities for notification as national electronic identity card schemes under regulation 910/2014.


### (14) the process of notification of electronic identification schemes should be simplified and accelerated to promote the access to convenient , trusted , secure and innovative authentication and identification solutions and , where relevant , to encourage private identity providers to offer electronic identification schemes to member state’s authorities for notification as national electronic identity card schemes under regulation 910/2014. ### (14) the process of notification of electronic identification schemes should be improved and accelerated to promote the access to convenient , trusted , secure and innovative authentication and identification solutions and , where relevant , to encourage private identity providers to offer electronic identification schemes to member state’s authorities for notification as national electronic identity card schemes under regulation 910/2014.


### (17) service providers use the identity data provided by the set of person identification data available from electronic identification schemes pursuant to regulation (eu) no 910/2014 in order to match users from another member state with the legal identity of that user. however , despite the use of the eidas data set , in many cases ensuring an accurate match requires additional information about the user and specific unique identification procedures at national level. to further support the usability of electronic identification means , this regulation should require member states to take specific measures to ensure a correct identity match in the process of electronic identification. for the same purpose , this regulation should also extend the mandatory minimum data set and require the use of a unique and persistent electronic identifier in conformity with union law in those cases where it is necessary to legally identify the user upon his/her request in a unique and persistent way. ### (17) service providers use the identity data provided by the set of person identification data available from electronic identification schemes pursuant to regulation (eu) no 910/2014 in order to match users from another member state with the legal identity of that user. however , despite the use of the eidas data set , in many cases ensuring an accurate match requires additional information about the user and specific unique identification procedures at national level. to further support the usability of electronic identification means , this regulation should require member states to take specific measures to ensure a correct and consistent identity match in the process of electronic identification. for the same purpose , this regulation should also extend the mandatory minimum data set and require the use of a unique and persistent electronic identifier in conformity with union law in those cases where it is necessary to legally identify the user upon his/her request in a unique and persistent way.


### (18) in line with directive (eu) 2019/88222 , persons with disabilities should be able to use the european digital identity wallets , trust services and end-user products used in the provision of those services on an equal basis with other users. ### (18) in line with directive (eu) 2019/88222 , persons with disabilities should be able to use the european digital identity wallets , trust services and end-user products used in the provision of those services on an equal basis with other users. a judicial authority should be able to appoint a trusted third party for users' wallets. the member states shall set arrangements for the use of european digital wallets by trusted third parties.


### (18) in line with directive (eu) 2019/88222 , persons with disabilities should be able to use the european digital identity wallets , trust services and end-user products used in the provision of those services on an equal basis with other users. ### (18) in line with directive (eu) 2019/88222 , persons with disabilities should be able to use the european digital identity wallets , trust services and end-user products used in the provision of those services on an equal basis with other users. a trusted third party can be appointed by judicial authority. member states should organise the use of digital wallet by trusted third parties for persons with disabilities and minors.


### (18) in line with directive (eu) 2019/88222 , persons with disabilities should be able to use the european digital identity wallets , trust services and end-user products used in the provision of those services on an equal basis with other users. ### (18) in line with directive (eu) 2019/88222 and , where applicable , directive (eu) 2016/21021a , persons with disabilities should be able to use the european digital identity wallets , trust services and end-user products used in the provision of those services on an equal basis with other users.


### (20) the provision and use of trust services are becoming increasingly important for international trade and cooperation. international partners of the eu are establishing trust frameworks inspired by regulation (eu) no 910/2014. therefore , in order to facilitate the recognition of such services and their providers , implementing legislation may set the conditions under which trust frameworks of third countries could be considered equivalent to the trust framework for qualified trust services and providers in this regulation , as a complement to the possibility of the mutual recognition of trust services and providers established in the union and in third countries in accordance with article 218 of the treaty. ### (20) the provision and use of trust services are becoming increasingly important for international trade , competitiveness , innovation , security and cooperation. international partners of the eu are establishing trust frameworks inspired by regulation (eu) no 910/2014. therefore , in order to facilitate the recognition of such services and their providers , implementing legislation sets the conditions under which trust frameworks of third countries could be considered equivalent to the trust framework for qualified trust services and providers in this regulation , as a complement to the possibility of the mutual recognition of trust services and providers established in the union and in third countries in accordance with article 218 of the treaty.


### (26) it should be possible to issue and handle trustworthy digital attributes and contribute to reducing administrative burden , empowering citizens and other residents to use them in their private and public transactions. citizens and other residents should be able , for instance , to demonstrate ownership of a valid driving license issued by an authority in one member state , which can be verified and relied upon by the relevant authorities in other member states , to rely on their social security credentials or on future digital travel documents in a cross border context. ### (26) it should be possible to issue and handle trustworthy digital attributes and contribute to reducing administrative burden , empowering citizens and other residents to use them in their private and public transactions under conditions of optimum security. citizens and other residents should be able , for instance , to demonstrate ownership of a valid driving license issued by an authority in one member state , which can be verified and relied upon by the relevant authorities in other member states , to rely on their social security credentials or on future digital travel documents in a cross border context.


### (26) it should be possible to issue and handle trustworthy digital attributes and contribute to reducing administrative burden , empowering citizens and other residents to use them in their private and public transactions. citizens and other residents should be able , for instance , to demonstrate ownership of a valid driving license issued by an authority in one member state , which can be verified and relied upon by the relevant authorities in other member states , to rely on their social security credentials or on future digital travel documents in a cross border context. ### (26) it should be possible to issue and handle trustworthy digital attributes and contribute to reducing administrative burden , empowering citizens and other residents to use them in their private and public transactions. citizens and other residents should be able , for instance , to demonstrate through digital means ownership of a valid driving license issued by an authority in one member state , which can be verified and relied upon by the relevant authorities in other member states , to rely on their social security credentials or on future digital travel documents in a cross border context.


### (27) any entity that collects , creates and issues attested attributes such as diplomas , licences , certificates of birth should be able to become a provider of electronic attestation of attributes. relying parties should use the electronic attestations of attributes as equivalent to attestations in paper format. therefore , an electronic attestation of attributes should not be denied legal effect on the grounds that it is in an electronic form or that it does not meet the requirements of the qualified electronic attestation of attributes. to that effect , general requirements should be laid down to ensure that a qualified electronic attestation of attributes has the equivalent legal effect of lawfully issued attestations in paper form. however , those requirements should apply without prejudice to union or national law defining additional sector specific requirements as regards form with underlying legal effects and , in particular , the cross-border recognition of qualified electronic attestation of attributes , where appropriate. ### (27) any entity that collects , creates and issues attested attributes such as diplomas , licences , certificates of birth should be able to become a provider of electronic attestation of attributes and be responsible for cancelling them. relying parties should use the electronic attestations of attributes as equivalent to attestations in paper format. therefore , an electronic attestation of attributes should not be denied legal effect on the grounds that it is in an electronic form or that it does not meet the requirements of the qualified electronic attestation of attributes. to that effect , general requirements should be laid down to ensure that a qualified electronic attestation of attributes has the equivalent legal effect of lawfully issued attestations in paper form. however , those requirements should apply without prejudice to union or national law defining additional sector specific requirements as regards form with underlying legal effects and , in particular , the cross-border recognition of qualified electronic attestation of attributes , where appropriate. member states should involve professional organisations in laying down attributes that concern them.