### 15. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has led to the expansion of the home delivery sector and specifically the use of vans , powered two-wheelers and bicycles; calls on the commission to consider introducing a requirement for van drivers to undergo professional driver training and proposing a regulation on working hours and rest periods for van drivers; calls on the commission to assess the introduction of a recommendation on the safety of delivery personnel , including requirements for employers and companies to ensure the provision and use of safety equipment and safe vehicles; ### 15. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has led to the expansion of the home delivery sector and specifically the use of vans , powered two-wheelers and bicycles; calls on the commission to consider introducing a requirement for van drivers to undergo professional driver training and to extend the existing union acquis on road transport to van drivers; calls on the commission to assess the introduction of a recommendation on the safety of delivery personnel , including requirements for employers and companies to ensure the provision and use of safety equipment and safe vehicles;


### 16. highlights the importance of fast and effective post-crash care in significantly reducing the consequences of injury; calls on the member states , in this context , to establish closer collaboration between their road safety authorities and the health sector , to make it mandatory to build emergency lanes and to enforce their correct use to speed up rescue operations; calls on the commission to consider making first aid training compulsory in the future revision of the driving licence directive; ### 16. highlights that an effective and complete post-crash response includes , in addition to medical care and rehabilitation , thorough crash investigation to identify causes & measures to prevent recurrence , criminal and civil proceedings whenever appropriate and support and recognition for the victims; calls on the member states , in this context , to establish closer collaboration between their road safety authorities and the health sector , to make it mandatory to build emergency lanes and to enforce their correct use to speed up rescue operations; calls on the commission to consider making first aid training compulsory in the future revision of the driving licence directive;


### 18. highlights that external factors and emerging societal trends present unprecedented challenges to road safety under the eu strategy to 2030 and beyond; notes that the eu should pave the way for connected and automated vehicles to be rolled out in due time and should assess the possible risks of combining such vehicles with traditional vehicles in mixed traffic and vulnerable road users; ### 18. highlights that external factors and emerging societal trends present unprecedented challenges to road safety under the eu strategy to 2030 and beyond; notes that the eu should pave the way for connected and automated vehicles to be rolled out in due time and should assess the possible risks of combining such vehicles with traditional vehicles in mixed traffic and vulnerable road users; calls , therefore , on the commission to fully assess the impact of increased automated vehicles on reducing safer , more environmentally friendly modes (walking , cycling , public transport , train etc.) , as well as the impact on urban areas of automated vehicles;


### 22. is of the view that in order to properly implement the next steps in the eu road safety policy under the overarching sustainable and smart mobility strategy , some new capacities are needed in the field of road safety , in particular with respect to the coordination , monitoring and evaluation functions and technical support for the overall strategy; calls on the commission in this regard to explore options to further support safe road transport under an existing agency or another body; ### 22. is of the view that in order to properly implement the next steps in the eu road safety policy under the overarching sustainable and smart mobility strategy , some new capacities are needed in the field of road safety , in particular with respect to the coordination , monitoring and evaluation functions and technical support for the overall strategy; calls on the commission in this regard to present a proposal for a european road transport agency;


### back on track: budget 2022 for recovery from the covid-19 crisis ### back on track: budget 2022 for a fair , inclusive and sustainable recovery from the covid-19 crisis


### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to sustaining the european economy , leveraging investments and supporting job creation throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , territorial and generational disparities; ### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic and social outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick , fair , inclusive and sustainable recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on peoples’ lives and contributing to sustaining the european economy , supporting all people , workers and vulnerable groups , leveraging sustainable investments , supporting job preservation and high-quality job creation throughout the union , and mitigating the multiple negative impact of the covid-19 crisis as well as reducing economic , social , territorial , gender and generational disparities that have been exacerbated by the pandemic;


### 1. stresses that 2022 will be a year of social and economic recovery for europe; emphasises that europe’s recovery will need to foster europe’s twin-transition; believes therefore that funding for digital and energy related investments play a key role in the recovery; ### 1. stresses that 2022 must be a year of social and economic recovery for europe; therefore , eu budget should be of benefit to the people and shall primarily be focused on social development and quality jobs for quality living standards , energy transition to more efficient and renewable-based energy system , fight against climate change , eradicate of energy poverty and digital public investments based on people's needs;


### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union; ### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost socially-balanced and sustainable investments and tackle unemployment , foster the just digital and green transitions , care for all people and vulnerable groups , improve the life prospects of the young generation , address the exacerbated inequalities and demographic challenges , and ensure a safe , prosperous and inclusive environment for all people in the eu; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a resilient , fair , inclusive and sustainable union;


### 3. recalls that smes remain the backbone of the european economy and continue to play a vital role in job and growth creation; underlines the importance of an adequately funded single market programme to boost competitiveness of small business with the development of digital and entrepreneurial skills; underscores , furthermore , the potential of the investeu programme in leveraging sustainable , innovative and social investments , but also in providing capital support to small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) negatively affected by the crisis; ### 3. recalls that small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) constitute the backbone of the european economy , representing almost 99% of all businesses and providing around three-quarters of all jobs , and that they continue to play a vital role in job and growth creation while being key drivers of innovation; points out that smes have been severely hit by the covid-19 crisis; underlines the importance of an adequately funded single market programme to effectively support small business , inter alia , with the development of digital and entrepreneurial skills; underscores , furthermore , the potential of the investeu programme in leveraging sustainable , innovative and social investments , but also in providing capital support to smes , especially those most affected by the crisis;


### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; ### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the just green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges and are not left behind;


### 5. strongly supports regional policy as the prime investment instrument of the eu budget that enables economic , social and territorial cohesion , and one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights its role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as employment , green economy and innovation , and as a driving force of a more inclusive and sustainable union; ### 5. underlines the pivotal role of cohesion policy in the recovery efforts and its unique european added value and contribution to the overall harmonious development of the eu , its member states and its regions; strongly supports regional policy as the prime investment instrument of the eu budget and as one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights its role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as economic , social and territorial convergence and cohesion , high-quality employment , fight against poverty , social exclusion , inequalities and discrimination , gender equality , green economy , rural development and innovation , and as a driving force of a fair , inclusive and sustainable union;


### 6. reaffirms the importance and potential of the eu4health programme , which under the new multiannual financial framework (mff) became the largest health programme to ever be funded by the eu budget; expects that synergies will be strengthened between all eu programmes that provide additional investments in the health sector like the esf+ , the erdf , horizon europe and digital europe; ### 6. reaffirms the importance and potential of the eu4health programme , which under the new multiannual financial framework (mff) became the largest health programme to ever be funded by the eu budget; expects that synergies will be strengthened between all eu programmes that provide additional investments in the public health sector like the esf+ , the erdf , horizon europe and digital europe;


### meeting the challenge of digital and green transitions ### meeting the challenge of just digital and green transitions


### 7. stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; points out to the importance of synergies between eu programmes to create successful conditions to accelerate the market uptake of breakthrough technologies and innovations; considers that the digital europe programme is essential in improving europe’s competitiveness in the global digital economy and achieving technological sovereignty; expects that this programme will boost investments in eu high-performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as the promotion of advanced digital skills across the economy and society; ### 7. stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; points out to the importance of synergies between eu programmes to create successful conditions to accelerate the market uptake of breakthrough technologies and innovations; considers that the digital europe programme is essential in improving europe’s competitiveness in the global digital economy and achieving technological sovereignty; expects that this programme will boost investments in eu high-performance computing , as well as the promotion of advanced digital skills across the economy and society;


### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes; ### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a carbon-neutral , sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022;


### providing better prospects for the young generation and addressing demographic challenges ### providing better prospects for the young generation , women and vulnerable groups and addressing demographic challenges


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


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


### ensuring a safe and prosperous environment for european citizens ### eu agencies in the 2022 budget


### 12. considers that the economic growth and prosperity , internal security , protection of the eu’s external borders , proper functioning of the schengen area and freedom of movement within the eu are inextricably linked and mutually beneficial; stresses that further integration of the schengen area , based on expert assessments , would provide members states on external borders with enhanced financial opportunities for border control; underlines the importance of robust eu investments in the area of internal security with a view to enhancing eu law enforcement and judicial response to cross-border criminal threats and promoting information exchange; ### deleted


### 13. highlights the need for adequate funding , staffing and staff training for all agencies operating in the field of security , justice and border control in order for them to fulfil their increased responsibilities , as well as the importance of cooperation among them , the need for technological innovations and adaptation , and their vital role in reinforcing cooperation and coordination among the member states; ### 13. notes that agencies operating in the area of security , law enforcement and criminal justice cooperation are being assigned an increasing number of tasks; requests that financial resources and staff posts be preserved for these agencies as well as adequate funding and staff for those working on money laundering and terrorism financing;


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


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


### 17. stresses that , following the late adoption of the mff 2021-2027 , the launch of eu flagship programmes like erasmus + , horizon europe , as well as the financing for the green deal and digitalisation strategies , were significantly delayed; expects , therefore , that every effort will be made to ensure that all new eu programmes are fully operational in 2022; recalls , in that respect , the joint statement by parliament , the council and the commission on tackling the impact of the covid-19 crisis issued in the joint conclusions on the 2021 budget , in which a particular attention is given to the sectors of the economy that are most hit by the crisis such as smes , tourism and hospitality sector , as well as the people that are most affected by the crisis; ### 17. stresses that , following the late adoption of the mff 2021-2027 , the launch of eu flagship programmes like erasmus + , horizon europe , as well as the financing for the european green deal and digitalisation strategies , were significantly delayed; expects , therefore , that every effort will be made to ensure that all new eu programmes are fully operational in 2022; recalls , in that respect , the joint statement by parliament , the council and the commission on tackling the impact of the covid-19 crisis issued in the joint conclusions on the 2021 budget , in which a particular attention is given to the sectors of the economy that are most hit by the crisis such as smes , tourism and hospitality sector , as well as the people and vulnerable groups that are most affected by the crisis;


### 19. stresses that the eu budget will be significantly reinforced by the european union recovery instrument (euri) in 2022 , with at least 60% of its total allocation to be committed under the different programmes by the end of that year; is concerned , however , about the delayed start of the borrowing and lending operations under this instrument , as the new own resources decision (ord) , providing the authorisation for these operations , is not yet in force; calls , therefore , on the member states to accelerate further the ratification process of the new ord , in order not to jeopardise the timely effect of the recovery; ### 19. stresses that the eu budget will be significantly reinforced by the european union recovery instrument (euri) in 2022 , with at least 60% of its total allocation to be committed under the different programmes by the end of that year; is concerned , however , about the delayed start of the borrowing and lending operations under this instrument , as the new own resources decision (ord) , providing the authorisation for these operations , is not yet in force; recalls that the financing of the euri depends on the urgent ratification by the member states of the ord; calls , therefore , on the member states to accelerate further the ratification process of the new ord , in order not to jeopardise the timely effect of the recovery;


### 20. underlines that the 2022 union budget will constitute a bridge between the first and second steps of the roadmap towards the introduction of new own resources; points , in that respect , to the need for a smooth implementation so that new own resources cover at least the expenditure related to the repayment of the euri; ### 20. underlines that the 2022 union budget will constitute a bridge between the first and second steps of the roadmap towards the introduction of new own resources; reiterates the urgency of introducing new own resources to diversify the eu budget’s revenue sources and of linking own resources with policy objectives more effectively; points , in that respect , to the need for a smooth implementation so that new own resources cover at least the expenditure related to the repayment of the euri without leading to undue reductions in mff programmes and instruments;


### 1. points out that , while transport-related emissions of most pollutants have fallen substantially in recent decades , persistent hotspots remain in the eu , where levels of air pollution are too high – especially in urban areas; ### 1. points out that , while transport-related emissions of most pollutants have fallen substantially in recent decades , persistent hotspots remain in the eu , where levels of air pollution are too high – especially in urban areas; recalls that air pollution is still the main environmental cause of disease with an estimated 450.000 persons dying prematurely each year as a result of exposure to air pollution ;


### 2. believes that in order to improve the air quality in these hotspots , it is vital to move towards a more sustainable and less polluting transport system , especially in urban areas , while using all available means in the most effective way and taking into account the most recent scientific evidence; ### 2. believes that in order to improve the air quality in these hotspots , it is vital to move towards a more sustainable and less polluting transport system , especially in urban areas , based on active mobility and public transport;


### 3. encourages local and regional authorities to devise and implement evidence-based , strategic sustainable urban mobility plans , aiming at a coordinated planning of policies , incentives and subsidies that target the various transport sectors and modes , such as measures to encourage the roll-out of e-charging and other alternative fuels , investment in sustainable public transport , infrastructure for active , shared and zero emission transport modes and demand-related measures; ### 3. encourages local and regional authorities to devise and implement , strategic sustainable urban mobility plans , aiming at a coordinated planning of policies , incentives and subsidies that target the various transport sectors and modes , low emission zones , investment in sustainable public transport , infrastructure for active , shared and zero emission transport modes and demand-related measures taking into account their social impacts; believes that , in parallel , the union should set an eu-wide objective for the phasing-out of fossil fuel vehicles;


### 4. reiterates the importance of a substantial modal shift from road towards less polluting forms of transportation; underlines , in this regard , the urgent need to improve railroad infrastructure , especially under the framework of the trans-european transport network , and to further ease and encourage intermodality; ### 4. reiterates the importance of a substantial modal shift from road towards less polluting forms of transportation such as active modes , public transport and rail; underlines , in this regard , the urgent need to improve railroad infrastructure , especially in urban areas and under the framework of the trans-european transport network , and to further ease and encourage intermodality; stresses the need to abolish the conformity factor , so that emissions measured under the type approval tests would better reflect real driving conditions;


### 4. stresses the need to guarantee that air quality is being measured by the member states in appropriate locations and at emissions sources , in order to avoid underestimation of air pollution; calls on the member states to improve their monitoring networks , and on the commission to enforce the obligations of the directive in this regard , including by providing support to member states in setting up monitoring stations , the training and hiring of experts , and ensuring greater accuracy in inspection , control and monitoring; ### 4. stresses the need to guarantee that air quality is being measured by the member states in appropriate locations and at emissions sources , in order to avoid underestimation of air pollution; calls on the member states to improve their knowledge of pollution levels in their territory and assess the effectiveness of air quality monitoring networks , enabling them to identify and resolve chronic and episodic levels of air pollution and improve their monitoring networks , and calls on the commission to create the conditions for the obligations of the directive to be met in this regard , including by providing support to member states in setting up monitoring stations , the training and hiring of experts , and ensuring greater accuracy in inspection , control and monitoring , so that appropriate measures can be taken to safeguard public health and quality of life;


### 5. points out that the proper implementation and enforcement of the air quality directives1 have proved challenging; urges , therefore , that directive 2008/50/ec and all other existing legislation relating to transport emissions be properly implemented and enforced first before new measures are proposed. ### 5. points out that the proper implementation and enforcement of the air quality directives1 have proved challenging; urges , therefore , that directive 2008/50/ec and all other existing legislation relating to transport emissions be properly implemented and enforced; stresses the need to shorten infringement procedures in order to force member states to take action without delay.


### 2. stresses that more investment in updating river and canal infrastructure (for example , locks , bridges and interoperable deployment of digital technologies across borders) is key , while respecting the applicable environmental law; ### 2. stresses that more investment in updating and extending river and canal infrastructure (for example , locks , bridges and interoperable deployment of digital technologies across borders) is key , while respecting the applicable environmental law;


### 4. highlights the importance of further encouraging and supporting initiatives aimed at the use of alternative fuels and propulsion methods for shipping in accordance with the principle of technological neutrality; points out , in this regard , the value of liquefied natural gas (lng) as a transitional solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in inland waterway transport; notes that the existing , technically mature vessels and distribution infrastructure now based on lng could be used for biogas and will therefore be essential in scaling up bio-lng as a marine fuel; ### 4. highlights the importance of further encouraging and supporting initiatives aimed at the use of alternative fuels and propulsion methods for shipping in accordance with the principle of technological neutrality; notes that the existing , technically mature vessels and distribution infrastructure now based on lng could be used for biogas and will therefore be essential in scaling up bio-lng as a marine fuel;


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


### education and training , and research and innovation (r&i) ### working conditions , education and training , and research and innovation (r&i)


### 12. stresses the need to modernise inland navigation education and training , focusing on the development of green and digital skills , thereby creating attractive jobs for young people; calls , furthermore , for the proper implementation of directive (eu) 2017/2397 on the recognition of professional qualifications in inland navigation by member states by 17 january 2022; ### 12. stresses the need to modernise inland navigation education and training , focusing on the development of green and digital skills , continuing education of at least one day a year , and exchange courses with other countries to underscore the deeply international nature of the profession; thereby creating attractive jobs for young people; calls , furthermore , for the proper implementation of directive (eu) 2017/2397 on the recognition of professional qualifications in inland navigation by member states by 17 january 2022;


### 1. welcomes the commission’s ambition to reach 340 gw of offshore renewable energy capacity by 2050 as a key element for the successful decarbonisation of transport and tourism; considers the massive expansion of offshore renewable energy generation , storage and distribution , and its full connection and integration into the energy grid , to represent an indispensable precondition for the widespread uptake of electric mobility and clean renewable transport fuels , such as hydrogen and ammonia in particular; calls , therefore , on the member states to swiftly and massively step up their investments in offshore renewable energy and to seize , in particular , the opportunity provided by the recovery and resilience facility (rrf) in this regard; ### 1. welcomes the commission’s ambition to reach 340 gw of offshore renewable energy capacity by 2050 as a key element for the successful decarbonisation of transport and tourism; underlines that the deployment of offshore renewable energy should contribute in tackling energy poverty and in providing affordable renewable energy , equally accessible to all; considers the massive expansion of offshore renewable energy generation , storage and distribution , and its full connection and integration into the energy grid , to represent an indispensable precondition for the widespread uptake of electric mobility and clean renewable transport fuels , such as hydrogen and ammonia in particular; stresses that offshore renewable energy should be produced for appropriate use with regard to the decarbonisation of transport , recalls that misuse of electric fuel or electrification could lead to overproduction and be inefficient throughout the chain; calls , therefore , on the member states to swiftly and massively step up their investments in offshore renewable energy and to seize , in particular , the opportunity provided by the recovery and resilience facility (rrf) in this regard;


### 3. underlines the opportunities that offshore renewable energy can offer to coastal tourism regions , both by increasing the energy-related sustainability of tourist stays , and by balancing seasonal economic effects , providing stable and predictable jobs and growth in local renewable offshore industries and small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) all year round; ### 3. 3. underlines the opportunities that offshore renewable energy can offer to coastal tourism regions , both by increasing the energy-related sustainability of tourist stays , and by balancing seasonal economic effects; calls on the commission and the member states to provide incentives for the creation of local offshore circular-energy communities providing stable and predictable jobs and growth all year round;


### 6. underlines that the drastically increasing needs for offshore renewable energy in the transport and tourism sectors can be met while fully complying with the goals of the eu biodiversity strategy , as , for example , the required scale-up of the offshore wind industry in order to meet the 2030 climate target is estimated to require less than 3 % of european maritime space. ### 6. underlines that the drastically increasing needs for offshore renewable energy in the transport and tourism sectors can be fully complying with the goals of the eu biodiversity strategy only if the deployment of offshore wind turbines is done in accordance with the ecosystem-based approach to marine spatial planning required by the 2014/89 eu directive.


### a. whereas the eu has endorsed the paris agreement , as well as the european green deal and the recently adopted european climate law , which set an ambitious target of reducing emissions by 55 % by 2030 and complementary goals , with the aim of achieving the eu’s net-zero carbon emission target by 2050 at the latest in order to fight the effects of global climate change; ### a. whereas the eu has endorsed the paris agreement , as well as the european green deal and the recently adopted european climate law , which set an ambitious target of reducing emissions by 55 % by 2030 and complementary goals , with the aim of achieving the eu’s net-zero carbon emission target by 2050 at the latest in order to fight the effects of global climate change; underlines that the unep emissions gap reports confirm that an emissions reduction of 65-70 % by 2030 would be necessary to limit global warming to 1 ,5 c in line with the commitments under the paris agreement;


### (1) the commission has set out , in its communication of 11 december 2019 entitled ‘the european green deal’21 , a new growth strategy that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy , where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050 and where economic growth is decoupled from resource use. the commission’s communication on the climate target plan22 proposing to increase the greenhouse gas emissions’ reduction level to at least 55% by 2030 - an ambition that was endorsed by the european council on 11 december 2020 - and its underlying impact assessment confirms that the energy mix of the future will be very different from the one of today and underpins the necessity to review and if necessary to revise the energy legislation. the current energy infrastructure investments are clearly insufficient to transform and build the energy infrastructure of the future. that also means infrastructure needs to be in place to support the european energy transition , including rapid electrification , scaling up of renewable electricity generation , the increased use of renewable and low-carbon gases , energy system integration and a higher uptake of innovative solutions. ### (1) the commission has set out , in its communication of 11 december 2019 entitled ‘the european green deal’21 , a new growth strategy that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy , where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050 and where economic growth is decoupled from resource use. the commission’s communication on the climate target plan22 proposing to increase the greenhouse gas emissions’ reduction level to at least 55% by 2030 - an ambition that was endorsed by the european council on 11 december 2020 - and its underlying impact assessment confirms that the energy mix of the future will be very different from the one of today and underpins the necessity to review and if necessary to revise the energy legislation. the current energy infrastructure investments are clearly insufficient to transform and build the energy infrastructure of the future. that also means infrastructure needs to be in place to support the european energy transition , including rapid electrification , scaling up of renewable electricity generation , the increased use of renewable gases , energy system integration and a higher uptake of innovative solutions.


### (1) the commission has set out , in its communication of 11 december 2019 entitled ‘the european green deal’21 , a new growth strategy that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy , where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050 and where economic growth is decoupled from resource use. the commission’s communication on the climate target plan22 proposing to increase the greenhouse gas emissions’ reduction level to at least 55% by 2030 - an ambition that was endorsed by the european council on 11 december 2020 - and its underlying impact assessment confirms that the energy mix of the future will be very different from the one of today and underpins the necessity to review and if necessary to revise the energy legislation. the current energy infrastructure investments are clearly insufficient to transform and build the energy infrastructure of the future. that also means infrastructure needs to be in place to support the european energy transition , including rapid electrification , scaling up of renewable electricity generation , the increased use of renewable and low-carbon gases , energy system integration and a higher uptake of innovative solutions. ### (1) the commission has set out , in its communication of 11 december 2019 entitled ‘the european green deal’21 , a new growth strategy that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy , where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050 and where economic growth is decoupled from resource use. the commission’s communication on the climate target plan22 proposing to increase the greenhouse gas emissions’ reduction level to at least 55% by 2030 - an ambition that was endorsed by the european council on 11 december 2020 - and its underlying impact assessment confirms that the energy mix of the future will be very different from the one of today and underpins the necessity to review and if necessary to revise the energy legislation. the current energy infrastructure investments are clearly insufficient to transform and build the energy infrastructure of the future. infrastructure needs to be in place to ensure a fast , just and complete european energy transition , including rapid electrification , scaling up of renewable electricity generation , energy system integration and a higher uptake of digital solutions.


### (2) following the commission’s proposals as part of the clean energy for all europeans package , an agreement was reached on a binding union level target for renewable energy for 2030 of at least 32% of final energy consumption and a headline union level target for energy efficiency of at least 32 ,5%. ### (2) the current binding union level target for renewable energy for 2030 of at least 32% of final energy consumption and a headline union level target for energy efficiency of at least 32 ,5% will be revised as part of the european green deal strategy enshrining the union's increased ambition in the european climate law.


### (6) the ten-e policy is a central instrument in the development of an internal energy market and necessary to achieve the european green deal objectives. to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and higher levels of greenhouse gas emission reductions by 2030 , europe will need a more integrated energy system , relying on higher levels of electrification based on renewable sources and the decarbonisation of the gas sector. the ten-e policy can ensure that the union energy infrastructure development supports the required energy transition to climate neutrality in line with the energy efficiency first principle. ### (6) energy infrastructures have a central role in setting the union economy on the right path to climate neutrality. as energy infrastructures remain in place for decades , decision made in coming years will have lasting implications for future generations. the ten-e policy is therefore a central instrument in the development of an internal energy market and necessary to achieve the european green deal objectives. to achieve climate neutrality as soon as possible and by 2050 at the latest and higher levels of greenhouse gas emission reductions by 2030 , europe will need a more integrated energy system , relying on higher levels of electrification based on renewable sources and the decarbonisation of the gas sector. the ten-e policy can ensure that the union energy infrastructure development supports the required energy transition to climate neutrality in line with the energy efficiency first principle.


### (7) while the objectives of regulation (eu) no 347/2013 remain largely valid , the current ten-e framework does not yet fully reflect the expected changes to the energy system that will result from the new political context and in particular the upgraded 2030 targets and the 2050 climate neutrality objective under the european green deal. besides the new political context and objectives , technological development has been rapid in the past decade. that development should be taken into account in the infrastructure categories covered by this regulation , the projects of common interest selection criteria as well as the priority corridors and thematic areas. ### (7) the objectives of regulation (eu) no 347/2013 need to be revised , as the current ten-e framework does not reflect the expected changes to the energy system that will result from the new political context and in particular the upgraded 2030 targets , the 2050 climate neutrality objective under the european green deal as well as the post-2050 objective of negative emissions under the european climate law. besides the new political context and objectives , technological development has been rapid in the past decade. that development should be taken into account in the infrastructure categories covered by this regulation , the projects of common interest selection criteria as well as the priority corridors and thematic areas.


### (10) the union’s energy infrastructure should be resilient to the unavoidable impacts that climate change is estimated to create in europe in spite of the mitigation efforts. hence , strengthening the efforts on climate adaptation , resilience building , disaster prevention and preparedness is crucial. ### (10) the union’s energy infrastructure should be fully aligned with the objective of limiting global warming to under 1 ,5 °c , be a key part of climate change mitigation , and resilient to the unavoidable impacts that climate change is estimated to create in europe in spite of the mitigation efforts. hence , strengthening the efforts on energy efficiency , climate adaptation and mitigation , resilience building , disaster prevention and preparedness is crucial.


### (11) security of supply , as one main driver behind regulation (eu) no 347/2013 , has been significantly improved through projects of common interest. moreover , the commission’s climate target impact assessment27 expects the consumption of natural gas to be reduced significantly because its non-abated use is not compatible with carbon-neutrality. on the other hand , the consumption of biogas , renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous fuels will increase significantly towards 2050. therefore , the natural gas infrastructure no longer needs support through the ten-e policy. the planning of energy infrastructure should reflect this changing gas landscape. ### (11) security of supply , as one main driver behind regulation (eu) no 347/2013 , has been significantly improved through projects of common interest. the commission’s climate target impact assessment27 in support of a 55% emissions reduction target by 2030 suggested fossil gas use would reduce by 32-37% of final energy consumption compared to 2015 and continue to plunge to negligible levels thereafter also because its non-abated use is not compatible with the climate neutrality goal. therefore , the fossil gas infrastructure no longer needs support through the ten-e policy. the planning of energy infrastructure should reflect this changing gas landscape.


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


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


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


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


### (16) regulation (eu) no 347/2013 requires a candidate project of common interest to prove a significant contribution to at least one criterion from a set of criteria in the process for the elaboration of the union list , which may , but does not need to , include sustainability. that requirement , in line with the specific needs of the internal energy market at the time , enabled development of projects of common interest which addressed only security of supply risks even if they did not demonstrate benefits in terms of sustainability. however , given the evolution of the union infrastructure needs and the decarbonisation goals , the conclusions of the 2020 july european council , according to which “union expenditure should be consistent with paris agreement objectives and the "do no harm" principle of the european green deal , sustainability in terms of the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid or the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions , as relevant , should be assessed in order to ensure that ten-e policy is coherent with energy and climate policy objectives of the union. the sustainability of co2 transport networks is addressed by their purpose to transport carbon dioxide. ### (16) regulation (eu) no 347/2013 requires a candidate project of common interest to prove a significant contribution to at least one criterion from a set of criteria in the process for the elaboration of the union list , which may , but does not need to , include sustainability. that requirement , in line with the specific needs of the internal energy market at the time , enabled development of projects of common interest which addressed only security of supply risks even if they did not demonstrate benefits in terms of sustainability. however , given the evolution of the union infrastructure needs and the decarbonisation goals , the conclusions of the 2020 july european council , according to which “union expenditure should be consistent with paris agreement objectives and the "do no harm" principle of the european green deal , as well as the 'energy efficiency first' principle underlined by the european parliament in its resolution of 10 july 2020 on the revision of the guidelines for the trans-european energy infrastructure and sustainability in terms of , inter alia , the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid , alternatives to additional infrastructures through energy efficient technologies and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions , as relevant , should be assessed in order to ensure that ten-e policy is coherent with energy and climate policy objectives of the union.


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


### 1. this regulation lays down guidelines for the timely development and interoperability of the priority corridors and areas of trans-european energy infrastructure set out in annex i (‘energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas’) that contribute to the union’s 2030 climate and energy targets and the climate neutrality objective by 2050. ### 1. this regulation lays down guidelines for the timely development and interoperability of the priority corridors and areas of trans-european energy infrastructure set out in annex i (‘energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas’) that contribute to the union’s equitable contribution to its international commitments , its 2030 climate and energy targets and the climate neutrality objective as soon as possible and by 2050 at the latest.


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


### (9) ‘smart gas grid’ means a gas network that makes use of innovative digital solutions to integrate in a cost efficient manner a plurality of low-carbon and renewable gas sources in accordance with consumers’ needs and gas quality requirements in order to reduce the carbon footprint of the related gas consumption , enable an increased share of renewable and low-carbon gases , and create links with other energy carriers and sectors; ### (9) ‘smart gas grid’ means a gas network that makes use of innovative digital solutions to integrate in a cost efficient manner a plurality of renewable gas sources in accordance with consumers’ needs and gas quality requirements in order to reduce the carbon footprint of the related gas consumption , enable an increased share of renewable gases , and create links with other energy carriers and sectors;


### (9) ‘smart gas grid’ means a gas network that makes use of innovative digital solutions to integrate in a cost efficient manner a plurality of low-carbon and renewable gas sources in accordance with consumers’ needs and gas quality requirements in order to reduce the carbon footprint of the related gas consumption , enable an increased share of renewable and low-carbon gases , and create links with other energy carriers and sectors; ### deleted


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


### 3. the decision-making body of each group shall adopt a regional list of proposed projects of common interest drawn up in accordance with the process set out in section 2 of annex iii , the contribution of each project to implementing the energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas and their fulfilment of the criteria set out in article 4. ### 3. the decision-making body of each group shall adopt a regional list of proposed projects of common interest presented divided into categories in accordance with annex ii and drawn up in accordance with the process set out in section 2 of annex iii , the contribution of each project to implementing the energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas and their fulfilment of the criteria set out in article 4.


### the project is necessary for at least one of the energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas; ### the project contributes significantly to the decarbonisation objectives of the union , creates cross sectoral synergies and is necessary for at least one of the energy infrastructure priority corridors and areas;


### for smart electricity grid projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in point (1)(d) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability through the integration of renewable energy into the grid , and at least two of the following specific criteria: ### for smart electricity grid projects falling under the energy infrastructure category set out in point (1)(d) of annex ii , the project is to contribute significantly to sustainability through the integration of renewable energy into the grid , and at least one of the following specific criteria:


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


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


### market integration , including by connecting existing or emerging hydrogen networks of member states , or otherwise contributing to the emergence of an union-wide network for the transport and storage of hydrogen , and ensuring interoperability of connected systems; ### market integration by contributing to the emergence of hydrogen valleys and their network for the transport , distribution and storage of hydrogen , and ensuring interoperability of connected systems;


### sustainability , including by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the deployment of renewable hydrogen. ### sustainability , by producing hydrogen from directly connected power generation facilities using renewable energy sources , reducing greenhouse gas emissions , as well as the criteria set out in annex iv;


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


### 5. where a project of common interest requires decisions to be taken in two or more member states , the respective competent authorities shall take all necessary steps for efficient and effective cooperation and coordination among themselves , including the steps referred to in article 10(5). member states shall endeavour to provide joint procedures , particularly with regard to the assessment of environmental impacts. ### 5. where a project of common interest requires decisions to be taken in two or more member states , the respective competent authorities shall take all necessary steps for efficient and effective cooperation and coordination among themselves , including the steps referred to in article 10(5). member states shall provide joint procedures , particularly with regard to the assessment of environmental impacts.


### prior to submitting their respective methodologies , the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall conduct an extensive consultation process involving at least the organisations representing all relevant stakeholders , including the entity of distribution system operators in the union (‘eu dso entity’) , all relevant hydrogen stakeholders and , where it is deemed appropriate the national regulatory authorities and other national authorities. ### deleted


### 2. within three months of the receipt of the methodologies together with the input received in the consultation process and a report on how it was taken into account , the agency shall provide an opinion to the entso for electricity , the entso for gas , the member states , and the commission and publish it on the agency’s website. ### 2. within three months of the receipt of the methodology , the agency shall provide an opinion to the eic and publish it on the agency’s website.


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


### 11. by [31 december 2023] , the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall jointly submit to the commission and the agency a consistent and interlinked energy market and network model including electricity , gas and hydrogen transmission infrastructure as well as storage , lng and electrolysers , covering the energy infrastructure priority corridors and the areas drawn up in line with the principles laid down in annex v. ### deleted


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


### the guidelines shall include the energy efficiency first principle and ensure that the underlying entso for electricity and entso for gas scenarios are fully in line with the latest medium and long-term european union decarbonisation targets and the latest available commission scenarios. ### the guidelines shall include the energy efficiency first principle and ensure that the underlying scenarios are fully in line with the latest medium and long-term european union decarbonisation targets and the latest available commission scenarios in line with achieving climate neutrality as soon as possible and by 2050 at the latest.


### 2. the entso for electricity and entso for gas shall follow the agency’s framework guidelines when developing the joint scenarios to be used for the union-wide ten-year network development plans. ### 2. the eic shall follow the agency’s framework guidelines when developing the scenarios to be used for the union-wide ten-year network development plan.


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


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


### when assessing the infrastructure gaps the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall implement the energy efficiency first principle and consider with priority all relevant non-infrastructure related solutions to address the identified gaps. ### when assessing the infrastructure gaps the eic shall implement the energy efficiency first principle and consider with priority all relevant non-infrastructure related solutions to address the identified gaps.


### prior to submitting their respective reports , the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall conduct an extensive consultation process involving all relevant stakeholders , including the union dso entity , all relevant hydrogen stakeholders and all the member states representatives part of the priority corridors defined in annex i. ### deleted


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


### 5. the entso for electricity and the entso for gas shall adapt their infrastructure gaps reports taking due account of the agency’s opinion and in line with the commission’s opinion before the publication of the final infrastructure gaps reports. ### 5. the eic shall adapt its infrastructure gaps reports taking due account of the agency’s opinion and the commission’s opinion before the publication of the final infrastructure gaps reports.


### (8) hydrogen interconnections in western europe (‘hi west’): hydrogen infrastructure enabling the emergence of an integrated hydrogen backbone connecting the countries of the region and addressing their specific infrastructure needs for hydrogen supporting the emergence of an eu-wide network for hydrogen transport. ### (8) hydrogen infrastructures in western europe (‘hi west): hydrogen infrastructure enabling the emergence of an integrated energy system addressing the specific infrastructure needs for hydrogen of the countries in the region to connect industrial clusters and multimodal transport hubs.


### electrolysers: supporting the deployment of power-to-gas applications aiming to enable greenhouse gas reductions and contributing to secure , efficient and reliable system operation and smart energy system integration. member states concerned: austria , belgium , denmark , france , germany , ireland , italy , luxembourg , malta , the netherlands , portugal , and spain; ### electrolysers: supporting the deployment of renewable based hydrogen applications aiming to enable greenhouse gas reductions and contributing to secure , efficient and reliable system operation and smart energy system integration. member states concerned: austria , belgium , denmark , france , germany , ireland , italy , luxembourg , malta , the netherlands , portugal , and spain;


### electrolysers: supporting the deployment of power-to-gas applications aiming to enable greenhouse gas reductions and contributing to secure , efficient and reliable system operation and smart energy system integration. member states concerned: austria , bulgaria , croatia , cyprus , czech republic , germany , greece , hungary , italy , poland , romania , slovakia and slovenia; ### electrolysers: supporting the deployment of renewable based hydrogen applications aiming to enable greenhouse gas reductions and contributing to secure , efficient and reliable system operation and smart energy system integration. member states concerned: austria , bulgaria , croatia , cyprus , czech republic , germany , greece , hungary , italy , poland , romania , slovakia and slovenia;


### (9) hydrogen interconnections in central eastern and south eastern europe (‘hi east’): hydrogen infrastructure enabling the emergence of an integrated hydrogen backbone connecting the countries of the region and addressing their specific infrastructure needs for hydrogen supporting the emergence of an eu-wide network for hydrogen transport. ### (9) hydrogen interconnections in central eastern and south eastern europe (‘hi east’): hydrogen infrastructure enabling the emergence of an integrated energy system addressing the specific infrastructure needs for hydrogen of the countries in the region to connect industrial clusters and multimodal transport hubs.


### (10) baltic energy market interconnection plan in hydrogen (‘bemip hydrogen’): hydrogen infrastructure enabling the emergence of an integrated hydrogen backbone connecting the countries of the region and addressing their specific infrastructure needs for hydrogen supporting the emergence of an eu-wide network for hydrogen transport. ### (10) baltic energy market interconnection plan in hydrogen (‘bemip hydrogen’): hydrogen infrastructure enabling the emergence of an integrated energy system addressing the specific infrastructure needs for hydrogen of the countries in the region to connect industrial clusters and multimodal transport hubs.


### electrolysers: supporting the deployment of power-to-gas applications aiming to enable greenhouse gas reductions and contributing to secure , efficient and reliable system operation and smart energy system integration. member states concerned: denmark , estonia , finland , germany , latvia , lithuania , poland and sweden. ### electrolysers: supporting the deployment of renewable based hydrogen applications aiming to enable greenhouse gas reductions and contributing to secure , efficient and reliable system operation and smart energy system integration. member states concerned: denmark , estonia , finland , germany , latvia , lithuania , poland and sweden.


### (11) smart electricity grids deployment: adoption of smart grid technologies across the union to efficiently integrate the behaviour and actions of all users connected to the electricity network , in particular the generation of large amounts of electricity from renewable or distributed energy sources and demand response by consumers. ### (11) smart electricity grids deployment: adoption of smart grid technologies across the union to efficiently integrate the behaviour and actions of all users connected to the electricity network , in particular the generation of large amounts of electricity from distributed renewable energy sources , demand response , energy storage , electric vehicles and all available flexibility sources.


### (13) smart gas grids: adoption of smart gas grid technologies across the union to efficiently integrate a plurality of renewable and low-carbon gas sources into the gas network , support the uptake of innovative solutions for network management and facilitating smart energy sector integration and demand response. ### deleted


### (13) smart gas grids: adoption of smart gas grid technologies across the union to efficiently integrate a plurality of renewable and low-carbon gas sources into the gas network , support the uptake of innovative solutions for network management and facilitating smart energy sector integration and demand response. ### (13) smart gas grids: adoption of smart gas grid technologies across the union to efficiently integrate a plurality of renewable gas sources into the gas network , support the uptake of innovative solutions for network management and facilitating smart energy sector integration and demand response.


### any of the following equipment or installation aiming at enabling and facilitating the integration of renewable and low-carbon gases (including biomethane or hydrogen) into the network: digital systems and components integrating ict , control systems and sensor technologies to enable the interactive and intelligent monitoring , metering , quality control and management of gas production , transmission , distribution and consumption within a gas network. furthermore , such projects may also include equipment to enable reverse flows from the distribution to the transmission level and related necessary upgrades to the existing network. ### any of the following equipment or installation aiming at enabling and facilitating the integration of renewable (including biomethane or hydrogen) into the network: digital systems and components integrating ict , control systems and sensor technologies to enable the interactive and intelligent monitoring , metering , quality control and management of gas production , transmission , distribution and consumption within a gas network. furthermore , such projects may also include equipment to enable reverse flows from the distribution to the transmission level and related necessary upgrades to the existing network.


### transmission pipelines for the transport of hydrogen , giving access to multiple network users on a transparent and non-discriminatory basis , which mainly contains high-pressure hydrogen pipelines , excluding pipelines for the local distribution of hydrogen; ### pipelines for the transport and distribution of hydrogen , departing from electrolyser facilities meeting the criteria listed in point (4) to industrial clusters and multimodal transport hubs giving access to multiple network users on a transparent and non-discriminatory basis;


### any equipment or installation essential for the hydrogen system to operate safely , securely and efficiently or to enable bi-directional capacity , including compressor stations. ### any equipment or installation essential for the hydrogen pipelines and facilities referred to in points (a) , (b) and (c)to operate safely , securely and efficiently or to enable bi-directional capacity , including compressor stations.


### electrolysers that: (i) have at least 100 mw capacity , (ii) the production complies with the life cycle greenhouse gas emissions savings requirement of 70 % relative to a fossil fuel comparator of 94g co2e/mj as set out in article 25(2) and annex v of directive (eu) 2018/2001 of the european parliament and of the council.60 life cycle greenhouse gas emissions savings are calculated using the methodology referred to in article 28(5) of directive (eu) 2018/2001 or , alternatively , using iso 14067 or iso 14064-1. quantified life-cycle ghg emission savings are verified in line with article 30 of directive (eu) 2018/2001 where applicable , or by an independent third party , and (iii) have also a network-related function; ### electrolysers that: (i) have at least 20 mw capacity; (ii) have a direct connection between the new renewable energy installations or a power purchase agreement for additional renewable energy capacity; or (iii) produce during periods when the electricity in the grid is entirely renewable or when the production of renewable electricity exceeds demand would be lost or curtailed or is converted into hydrogen for storage for system efficiency purposes;


### (1) with regard to energy infrastructure falling under the competency of national regulatory authorities , each group shall be composed of representatives of the member states , national regulatory authorities , tsos , as well as the commission , the agency and the entso for electricity or the entso for gas , as relevant. ### (1) with regard to energy infrastructure falling under the competency of national regulatory authorities , each group shall be composed of representatives of the member states , national regulatory authorities , representatives of the eic , the commission , as well as the agency with particular attention to ensuring a balanced presence of representatives of local authorities , affected populations and communities , nature conservation and environmental protection associations.


### for electrolysers , the project provides at least 100 mw installed capacity and the brings benefits directly or indirectly to at least two member states; ### for electrolysers , the project consisting of an individual electrolyser or a group of electrolysers brings benefits directly or indirectly to at least two member states;


### for smart gas grids , a project involves transmission system operators , transmission and distribution system operators or distribution system operators from at least two member states. distribution system operators can be involved only with the support of the transmission system operators , of at least two member states , that are closely associated to the project and ensure interoperability. ### deleted


### for projects of mutual interest in the category set out in point (5) of annex ii , the project can be used to transport anthropogenic carbon dioxide by at least two member states and a third country. ### deleted


### sustainability measured as the contribution of a project to: greenhouse gas emission reductions in different end-use applications , such as industry or transport; flexibility and seasonal storage options for renewable electricity generation; or the integration of renewable hydrogen. ### sustainability measured as the contribution of a project to: reduce greenhouse gas emission over the full life-cycle in the end-use applications , which exceed the emission reductions achieved by energy efficiency and direct renewable energy use alternatives; flexibility and seasonal storage options for renewable electricity generation; or the integration of renewable hydrogen.


### security of supply and flexibility measured by calculating the additional value of the project to the resilience , diversity and flexibility of hydrogen supply. ### security of supply and flexibility measured by calculating the additional value of the project to the resilience and flexibility of hydrogen supply.


### level of sustainability measured by assessing the share of renewable and low-carbon gases integrated into the gas network , the related greenhouse gas emission savings towards total system decarbonisation and the adequate detection of leakage. ### level of sustainability measured by assessing the share of renewable gases integrated into the gas network , the related greenhouse gas emission savings towards total system decarbonisation and the adequate detection of leakage.


### quality and security of supply measured by assessing the ratio of reliably available gas supply and peak demand , the share of imports replaced by local renewable and low-carbon gases , the stability of system operation , the duration and frequency of interruptions per customer. ### quality and security of supply measured by assessing the ratio of reliably available gas supply and peak demand , the share of imports replaced by local renewable gases , the stability of system operation , the duration and frequency of interruptions per customer.


### (17) the union should facilitate infrastructure projects linking the union’s energy networks with third-country networks that are mutually beneficial and necessary for the energy transition and the achievement of the climate targets , and which also meet the specific criteria of the relevant infrastructure categories pursuant to this regulation , in particular with neighbouring countries and with countries with which the union has established specific energy cooperation. therefore , this regulation should include in its scope projects of mutual interest where they are sustainable and able to demonstrate significant net socio-economic benefits for at least two member states and at least one third country. such projects would be eligible for inclusion in the union list upon conditions of regulatory approximation with the union and upon demonstrating a contribution to the union’s overall energy and climate objectives in terms of security of supply and decarbonisation. such regulatory alignment or convergence should be presumed for the european economic area or energy community contracting parties. in addition , the third country with which the union cooperates in the development of projects of mutual interest should facilitate a similar timeline for accelerated implementation and other policy support measures , as stipulated in this regulation. therefore , in this regulation , projects of mutual interest should be considered in the same manner as projects of common interest with all provisions relative to projects of common interest applying also to projects of mutual interest , unless otherwise specified. ### (17) the union should facilitate infrastructure projects linking the union’s electricity networks with third-country networks that are mutually beneficial and necessary for the energy transition and the achievement of the international climate targets as laid out in the paris agreement , and which also meet the specific criteria of the relevant infrastructure categories pursuant to this regulation , in particular with neighbouring countries and with countries with which the union has established specific energy cooperation. therefore , this regulation should include in its scope projects of mutual interest where they are sustainable and able to demonstrate significant net socio-economic benefits for at least two member states and at least one third country. such projects would be eligible for inclusion in the union list upon conditions of regulatory approximation with the union and demonstrated effective implementation thereof , and upon demonstrating a contribution to the union’s and the third country's overall energy and climate objectives in terms of security of supply and decarbonisation. such regulatory alignment or convergence should be presumed for the european economic area or energy community contracting parties respectively , whereas tools for demonstrated effective implementation would still have to be created for the latter. in addition , the third country with which the union cooperates in the development of projects of mutual interest should facilitate a similar timeline for accelerated implementation and other policy support measures , as stipulated in this regulation. therefore , in this regulation , projects of mutual interest should be considered in the same manner as projects of common interest with all provisions relative to projects of common interest applying also to projects of mutual interest , unless otherwise specified.


### (20) the union-wide ten-year network development plan process as basis for the identification of projects of common interest in the categories of electricity and gas has proven to be effective. however , while the european network of transmission system operators for electricity and for gas (entsos) and transmission system operators have an important role to play in the process , more scrutiny is required , in particular as regards defining the scenarios for the future , identifying long-term infrastructure gaps and bottlenecks and assessing individual projects , to enhance trust in the process. therefore , due to the need for independent validation , the agency for the cooperation of energy regulators (‘the agency’) and the commission should have an increased role in the process , including in the process for drawing up the union-wide ten-year network development plan pursuant to regulation (eu) 2019/943 of the european parliament and of the council31 and regulation (ec) no 715/2009 of the european parliament and of the council32 . ### (20) the union-wide ten-year network development plan process has so far been the basis for the identification of projects of common interest in the categories of electricity and gas. however , in order to achieve the 2030 climate objectives and the target of reaching climate neutrality as soon as possible and by 2050 at the latest , as well as reaching the 2040 offshore energy development objectives an ambitious and transformative long term vision guaranteeing future-proof methodologies and scenarios is needed. more scrutiny is required , in particular as regards defining the scenarios for the future , identifying long-term infrastructure gaps and bottlenecks and assessing individual projects , to enhance trust in the process. therefore , due to the need for independent expertise and validation is required. the agency for the cooperation of energy regulators (‘the agency’) and the commission should have an increased role in the process , including in the process for drawing up the union-wide ten-year network development plan pursuant to regulation (eu) 2019/943 of the european parliament and of the council31 and regulation (ec) no 715/2009 of the european parliament and of the council32 .


### (36) it is important to streamline and improve the process of permit granting , while respecting to the extent possible with due regard to the principle of subsidiarity , national competences and procedures for the construction of new infrastructure. given the urgency of developing energy infrastructures , the simplification of the process of permit granting should set out a clear time limit for the decision of the respective authorities regarding the construction of the project. that time limit should stimulate a more efficient definition and handling of procedures , and should under no circumstances compromise the high standards for the protection of the environment in line with environmental legislation and public participation. this regulation should establish maximum time limits , however member states can strive to achieve shorter time limits where feasible and , in particular , as regards projects like smart grids , which may not require a complex permitting processes as that for transmission infrastructure. the competent authorities should be responsible for ensuring compliance with the time limits. ### (36) it is important to streamline and improve the process of permit granting , while respecting to the extent possible with due regard to the principle of subsidiarity , national competences and procedures for new infrastructure. given the urgency of developing energy infrastructures , the simplification of the process of permit granting should set out a clear time limit for the decision of the respective authorities regarding the project. that time limit should stimulate a more efficient definition and handling of procedures , and should under no circumstances compromise the high standards for the protection of the environment in line with environmental legislation and public participation. this regulation should establish maximum time limits , however member states can strive to achieve shorter time limits where feasible and , in particular , as regards projects like smart grids , which may not require a complex permitting processes as that for transmission infrastructure. the competent authorities should be responsible for ensuring compliance with the time limits.


### (39) the discussion on the appropriate allocation of costs should be based on the analysis of the costs and benefits of an infrastructure project carried out on the basis of a harmonised methodology for energy-system-wide analysis , using the same scenario used at the time when the project was included in the union list of projects of common interest , in the framework of the union-wide ten-year network development plans prepared by the european networks of transmission system operators pursuant to regulation (eu) 2019/943 and (ec) no 715/2009 , and reviewed by the agency. that analysis can take into consideration indicators and corresponding reference values for the comparison of unit investment costs. ### (39) the discussion on the appropriate allocation of costs should be based on the analysis of the costs and benefits of an infrastructure project carried out on the basis of a harmonised methodology for energy-system-wide analysis , using the same scenario used at the time when the project was included in the union list of projects of common interest , in the framework of the union-wide ten-year network development. this cost-benefit analysis should include full life cycle emissions of a project , as well as other sustainability criteria related to the objectives of sustainable use and the protection of resources , including water , the handling of waste and the increased use of raw and secondary materials , pollution prevention and control , the protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems , and consider air quality. the cost-benefit analysis should also include the impact on future generations with a view to ensuring inter-generational justice. that analysis can take into consideration indicators and corresponding reference values for the comparison of unit investment costs.


### (41) the internal energy market legislation requires that tariffs for access to networks provide appropriate incentives for investment. however , several types of projects of common interest are likely to bring externalities that can possibly not be fully captured in and recovered through the regular tariff system. in applying the internal energy market legislation , national regulatory authorities should ensure a stable and predictable regulatory and financial framework with incentives for projects of common interest , including long-term incentives , that are commensurate with the level of specific risk of the project. that should apply in particular to cross-border projects , innovative transmission technologies for electricity allowing for large scale integration of renewable energy , of distributed energy resources or of demand response in interconnected networks , and energy technology and digitalisation projects which are likely to incur higher risks than similar projects located within one member state , or , promise higher benefits for the union. moreover , projects with high operational expenditure should also have access to appropriate incentives for investment. in particular , offshore grids for renewable energy which serve the dual functionality of electricity interconnectors and connecting renewable offshore generation projects , are likely to incur higher risks than comparable onshore infrastructure projects , due to their intrinsic connection to generation assets which brings regulatory risks , financing risks such as the need for anticipatory investments , market risks and risks pertaining to the use of new innovative technologies. ### (41) the internal energy market legislation requires that tariffs for access to networks provide appropriate incentives for investment. however , several types of projects of common interest are likely to bring externalities that can possibly not be fully captured in and recovered through the regular tariff system. in applying the internal energy market legislation , national regulatory authorities should ensure a stable and predictable regulatory and financial framework with incentives for projects of common interest , including long-term incentives , that are commensurate with the level of specific risk of the project. that should apply in particular to cross-border projects , innovative transmission technologies for electricity allowing for large scale integration of renewable energy , of distributed energy resources or of demand response in interconnected networks , and energy technology and digitalisation as well as heating and cooling networks projects which are likely to incur higher risks than similar projects located within one member state , or , promise higher benefits for the union. moreover , projects with high operational expenditure should also have access to appropriate incentives for investment. in particular , offshore grids for renewable energy which serve the dual functionality of electricity interconnectors and connecting renewable offshore generation projects , are likely to incur higher risks than comparable onshore infrastructure projects , due to their intrinsic connection to generation assets which brings regulatory risks , financing risks such as the need for anticipatory investments , market risks and risks pertaining to the use of new innovative technologies.