### those obligations include meeting the emission limits set out in annex i. for the purposes of determining compliance with the euro 6 emission limits set out in table 2 of annex i , the emission values determined during any valid real driving emissions (rde) test shall be divided by the applicable conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i. the result shall remain below the euro 6 emission limits set out in table 2 of that annex.; ### those obligations include meeting the emission limits set out in annex i. for the purposes of determining compliance with the euro 6 emission limits set out in table 2 of annex i , the emission values determined during any valid real driving emissions (rde) test shall be divided by the temporary conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i until its complete phase-out by 31 december 2021. the result shall remain below the euro 6 emission limits set out in table 2 of that annex.;


### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall , during any valid rde test , be determined by taking into account the pollutant-specific conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1). ### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall , during any valid rde test , be determined by taking into account the pollutant-specific temporary conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i , until its complete phase-out by 31 december 2021 , in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1).


### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall , during any valid rde test , be determined by taking into account the pollutant-specific conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1). ### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall be determined by using a valid rde test. until 1 january 2022 at the latest , the rde test shall take into account the pollutant-specific conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1).


### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall , during any valid rde test , be determined by taking into account the pollutant-specific conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1).; ### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall , during any valid rde test , be determined by taking into account the pollutant-specific temporary conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i , until its complete phase-out by 31 december 2021 , in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1).;


### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall , during any valid rde test , be determined by taking into account the pollutant-specific conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1).; ### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall be determined by using a valid rde test. until 1 january 2022 at the latest , the rde test shall take into account the pollutant-specific conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1).;


### 3. the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 14a: ### deleted


### supplementing this regulation in order to adapt the procedures , tests and requirements as well as the test cycles used to measure emissions in order to adequately reflect real driving emissions; ### deleted


### amending this regulation in order to adapt to technical progress the pollutant-specific final conformity factors set out in table 2a to annex i.; ### deleted


### supplementing this regulation in order to adapt the procedures , tests and requirements as well as the test cycles used to measure emissions in order to adequately reflect real driving emissions; ### supplementing this regulation in order to adapt the procedures , tests and requirements as well as the test cycles used to measure emissions in order to adequately reflect real driving emissions in line with iso standards;


### amending this regulation in order to adapt to technical progress the pollutant-specific final conformity factors set out in table 2a to annex i.; ### amending this regulation in order to adapt to technical progress the pollutant-specific temporary conformity factors set out in table 2a to annex i until its complete phase-out by 31 december 2021.;


### amending this regulation in order to adapt to technical progress the pollutant-specific final conformity factors set out in table 2a to annex i.; ### amending this regulation in order to review annually downwards the pollutant-specific final conformity factors set out in table 2a to annex i.;


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


### cf pollutant-final (2) ### 1 ,43


### cf pollutant-temp (3) ### 2 ,1


### not provide or display other labels , marks , symbols or inscriptions that are likely to mislead or confuse customers with respect to the information included on the label. ### not provide or display other labels , marks , symbols or inscriptions that are likely to mislead or confuse customers with respect to the information included on the label. these restrictions do not apply to the eu ecolabel and other officially recognised type 1 ecolabels (iso 14024).


### not provide or display other labels , marks , symbols or inscriptions that are likely to mislead or confuse customers with respect to the information included on the label. ### not provide or display other labels , marks , symbols or inscriptions that are likely to mislead or confuse customers with respect to the information included on the label by mimicking mandatory labels or providing information contradicting or not consistent with mandatory labels.


### collecting the in-use data if it can be accessed remotely via the internet , unless the end-user expressly refuses to make that data available; ### collecting the in-use data if it can be accessed remotely via the internet following explicit consent by the end-user in accordance with regulation (eu) 2016/679 to make the data available;


### notified bodies shall participate in the work of any relevant group , directly or by means of designated representatives. ### notified bodies shall participate in the work of any relevant group directly. the repetitive absence of participation shall be cause of notification withdrawal.


### 1. member states incentives relating to products covered by a delegated act adopted pursuant to article 4 that determines classes of performance in accordance with article 7(4) , in relation to a product parameter referred to in annex i , shall concern the highest two classes of performance that are populated at union level or , where relevant , products with an eu ecolabel , unless otherwise specified in that delegated act. ### 1. member states incentives relating to products covered by a delegated act adopted pursuant to article 4 that determines classes of performance in accordance with article 7(4) , in relation to a product parameter referred to in annex i , shall concern the highest two classes of performance that are populated at union level or , where relevant , products with an eu ecolabel , and other officially recognised type 1 ecolabels (iso 14024) , unless otherwise specified in that delegated act.


### 1. requirements pursuant to article 4 , third subparagraph , point (h) for public contracts awarded by contracting authorities , as defined in article 2(1) of directive 2014/24/eu or article 3(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , or contracting entities , as defined in article 4(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , may take the form of mandatory technical specifications , selection criteria , award criteria , contract performance clauses , or targets , as appropriate. ### 1. requirements pursuant to article 4 , third subparagraph , point (h) for public contracts awarded by contracting authorities , as defined in article 2(1) of directive 2014/24/eu or article 3(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , or contracting entities , as defined in article 4(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , may take the form of contract performance clauses , as appropriate , linked to the subject matter of the contract.


### no sooner than [8 years after the date of application of this regulation] , the commission shall carry out an evaluation of this regulation and of its contribution to the functioning of the internal market and the improvement of the environmental sustainability of products. the commission shall present a report on the main findings to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee , and the committee of the regions. member states shall provide the commission with the information necessary for the preparation of that report. ### “no sooner than [8 years after the date of application of this regulation] , the commission shall carry out an evaluation of this regulation and of its contribution to the functioning of the internal market and the improvement of the environmental sustainability of products. the commission shall present a report on the main findings to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee , and the committee of the regions. member states shall provide the commission with the information necessary for the preparation of that report.


### ease of repair and maintenance as expressed through: characteristics , availability and delivery time of spare parts , modularity , compatibility with commonly available spare parts , availability of repair and maintenance instructions , number of materials and components used , use of standard components , use of component and material coding standards for the identification of components and materials , number and complexity of processes and tools needed , ease of non-destructive disassembly and re-assembly , conditions for access to product data , conditions for access to or use of hardware and software needed; ### ease of repair and maintenance as expressed through: characteristics , availability and delivery time and price of spare parts , modularity , compatibility with commonly available spare parts , availability of repair and maintenance instructions , number of materials and components used , use of standard components , use of component and material coding standards for the identification of components and materials , number and complexity of processes and tools needed , use of standard tools , ease of non-destructive disassembly and re-assembly , conditions for access to product data , conditions for access to or use of hardware and software needed;


### ease and quality of recycling as expressed through: use of easily recyclable materials , safe , easy and non-destructive access to recyclable components and materials or components and materials containing hazardous substances , material composition and homogeneity , possibility for high-purity sorting , number of materials and components used , use of standard components , use of component and material coding standards for the identification of components and materials , number and complexity of processes and tools needed , ease of non-destructive disassembly and re-assembly , conditions for access to product data , conditions for access to or use of hardware and software needed; ### ease and quality of recycling as expressed through: use of easily recyclable materials , availabilty of treatment plants for recovery , safe , easy and non-destructive access to recyclable components and materials or components and materials containing hazardous substances , material composition and homogeneity , possibility for high-purity sorting , number of materials and components used , use of standard components , use of component and material coding standards for the identification of components and materials , number and complexity of processes and tools needed , ease of non-destructive disassembly and re-assembly , conditions for access to product data , conditions for access to or use of hardware and software needed;


### products’ expected generation of waste materials. ### products’ expected generation of waste materials and recyclability.


### (13) ‘end-of-life’ means the life cycle stage that begins when a product is discarded and ends when the product is returned to nature as a waste product or enters another product’s life cycle; ### (13) ‘end-of-life’ means the life cycle stage that begins when a product is discarded as a waste and ends when the material is returned to nature or enters another product’s life cycle;


### (15) ‘class of performance’ means a range of performance levels in relation to one or more product parameters referred to in annex i , ordered into successive steps to allow for product differentiation; ### (15) ‘class of performance’ means a range of performance levels in relation to one or more product parameters referred to in annex i assessed by the same methodology , ordered into successive steps to allow for product differentiation;


### (16) ‘remanufacturing’ means an industrial process in which a product is produced from objects that are waste , products or components and in which at least one change is made to the product that affects the safety , performance , purpose or type of the product typically placed on the market with a commercial guarantee; ### (16) ‘remanufacturing’ means an industrial process in which a product is produced from objects that are waste , products or components and in which at least one change is made to the product that affects the safety , performance and/or functionality within the intended use or type of the product typically placed on the market with a commercial guarantee; requiring a conformity assessment of the resulting product to ensure its compliance with applicable technical standards and regulatory requirements;


### (17) ‘upgrading’ means enhancing the functionality , performance , capacity or aesthetics of a product; ### (17) ‘upgrading’ means enhancing the functionality , performance , capacity , safety or aesthetics of a product;


### (18) ‘refurbishment’ means preparing or modifying an object that is waste or a product to restore its performance or functionality within the intended use , range of performance and maintenance originally conceived at the design stage , or to meet applicable technical standards or regulatory requirements , with the result of making a fully functional product; ### (18) ‘refurbishment’ means preparing or modifying an object that is waste or a product to change its purpose and , possibly but not necessarily , its safety , performance or type of the product typically placed on the market with a commercial guarantee; and to maintain the compliance with or to meet applicable technical standards and regulatory requirements applicable at the time of placing on the market , with the result of making a fully functional product;


### (20) ‘repair’ means returning a defective product or waste to a condition where it fulfils its intended use; ### (20) ‘repair’ means returning a defective product or waste to a condition where it fulfils its intended use meeting at least the applicable technical standards and regulatory requirements applicable at the time of placing on the market;


### (23) ‘environmental footprint’ means a quantification of a product’s environmental impacts , whether in relation to a single environmental impact category or an aggregated set of impact categories based on the product environmental footprint method; ### (23) ‘environmental footprint’ means a quantification of a product’s environmental impacts , whether in relation to a single environmental impact category or an aggregated set of impact categories based on the product environmental footprint method or other scientifically robust and verifiable standards which are lifecycle based;


### (24) ‘product environmental footprint method’ means the life cycle assessment method to quantify the environmental impacts of products established by recommendation (eu) 2021/2279; ### (24) ‘product environmental footprint method’ means the life cycle assessment harmonised method to quantify the environmental impacts of products established by recommendation (eu) 2021/2279 and based on common data bases;


### (28) ‘substance of concern’ means a substance that: ### (28) ‘relevant substance’ means a substance that:


### meets the criteria laid down in article 57 and is identified in accordance with article 59(1) of regulation (ec) no 1907/2006; or ### meets the criteria laid down in article 57 or is identified in accordance with article 59(1) of regulation (ec) no 1907/2006; or


### 3. performance requirements based on the product parameter set out in annex i , point (f) , shall not restrict the presence of substances in products for reasons relating primarily to chemical safety. ### deleted


### include , as a minimum , requirements related to the product passport referred to in chapter iii and requirements related to substances of concern referred to in paragraph 5; and ### include , as a minimum , requirements related to the product passport referred to in chapter iii and requirements related to relevant substances referred to in paragraph 5; and


### 3. information requirements based on the product parameter set out in annex i , point (f) , shall not provide obligations on the labelling of substances or mixtures for reasons relating primarily to their hazards to health or the environment. ### 3. information requirements based on the product parameter set out in annex i , point (f) , shall provide obligations on the labelling of substances or mixtures for reasons relating primarily to their hazards to health or the environment.


### the information requirements referred to in paragraph 1 shall enable the tracking of all substances of concern throughout the life cycle of products , unless such tracking is already enabled by another delegated act adopted pursuant to article 4 covering the products concerned , and shall include at least the following: ### the information requirements referred to in paragraph 1 shall enable the tracking of all relevant substances , including the threshold to be defined for a specific product group pursuant to a multi-stakeholder consultation , throughout the life cycle of products , unless such tracking is already enabled by another delegated act adopted pursuant to article 4 covering the products concerned , and shall include at least the following:


### the information requirements referred to in paragraph 1 shall enable the tracking of all substances of concern throughout the life cycle of products , unless such tracking is already enabled by another delegated act adopted pursuant to article 4 covering the products concerned , and shall include at least the following: ### the information requirements referred to in paragraph 1 shall oblige the tracking of all substances of concern and , where appropriate , all substances throughout the life cycle of products , unless such tracking is already enabled by another delegated act adopted pursuant to article 4 covering the products concerned , and shall include at least the following:


### (14) member states should have a wide discretion to impose public service obligations on gas undertakings in pursuing objectives of general economic interest. however , public service obligations in the form of price setting for the supply of natural gas constitute a fundamentally distortive measure that often leads to the accumulation of tariff deficits , the limitation of consumer choice , poorer incentives for energy saving and energy efficiency investments , lower standards of service , lower levels of consumer engagement and satisfaction , and the restriction of competition , as well as to there being fewer innovative products and services on the market. consequently , member states should apply other policy tools , in particular targeted social policy measures , to safeguard the affordability of natural gas supply to their citizens. public interventions in price setting for the supply of natural gas should be carried out only as public service obligations and should be subject to specific conditions. a fully liberalised , well-functioning retail natural gas market would stimulate price and non-price competition among existing suppliers and provide incentives to new market entrants , thereby improving consumer choice and satisfaction. ### (14) member states should ensure that household customers and , where member states consider it to be appropriate , small enterprises , enjoy the right to be supplied with gas of a specified quality at clearly comparable , transparent and competitive prices. member states should maintain a wide discretion to impose public service obligations on gas undertakings in pursuing objectives of general economic interest. however , public service obligations in the form of price setting for the supply of natural gas constitute a fundamentally distortive measure that often leads to the accumulation of tariff deficits , the limitation of consumer choice , poorer incentives for energy saving and energy efficiency investments , lower standards of service , lower levels of consumer engagement and satisfaction , and the restriction of competition , as well as to there being fewer innovative products and services on the market. consequently , member states should apply other policy tools , in particular targeted social policy measures , to safeguard the affordability of natural gas supply to their citizens. public interventions in price setting for the supply of natural gas should be carried out only as public service obligations and should be subject to specific conditions. a fully liberalised , well-functioning retail natural gas market would stimulate price and non-price competition among existing suppliers and provide incentives to new market entrants , thereby improving consumer choice and satisfaction.


### (29) the modernisation of the gas sector is expected to lead to substantial economic benefits in terms of both improved retail competition and its social and distributional benefits and customer empowerment , including strengthened contractual rights and better available information on consumption and energy sources leading to greener choices. energy communities-of-interest should contribute to the uptake of renewable gas. ### (29) the modernisation of the gas sector is expected to lead to substantial economic and enviromental benefits in terms of both improved retail competition and its social and distributional benefits and customer empowerment , including strengthened contractual rights and better available information on consumption and energy sources leading to greener choices. energy communities-of-interest should contribute to the uptake of renewable gas.


### (35) recognising the role they can play in decarbonizing the energy system , certain categories of citizen energy initiatives should be recognised in the natural gas market at the union level as ‘citizen energy communities’. these communities should facilitate the use of renewable gas in the natural gas system. in order to provide them with an enabling framework , fair treatment , a level playing field and a well-defined catalogue of rights and obligations should be laid down which generally reflects the membership structure , governance requirements and purpose of citizen energy communities in directive (eu) 2019/944. ### (35) recognising the role they can play in decarbonizing the energy system , certain categories of citizen energy initiatives should be recognised in the natural gas market at the union level as ‘citizen energy communities’. these communities should facilitate the use of renewable gas in and should contribute to the decarbonisation of the natural gas system , as well as contribute to the reduction of carbon footprint. in order to provide them with an enabling framework , fair treatment , a level playing field and a well-defined catalogue of rights and obligations should be laid down which generally reflects the membership structure , governance requirements and purpose of citizen energy communities in directive (eu) 2019/944.


### (37) bills and billing information are an important means to inform and empower final customers. energy bills remain the most common consumer concern and source of consumer complaints , a factor that contributes to the persistently low levels of consumer satisfaction and engagement in the gas sector. provisions for billing information in the gas sector also lag behind rights granted to consumers in the electricity sector. it is therefore necessary to align them and to set minimum requirements for bills and billing information in the gas sector , so that consumers have access to transparent , easy to understand information. bills should convey information to the final consumers on their consumption and costs , thus facilitating comparison between offers and switching supplier , as well as information on their consumer rights (such as on alternative dispute resolution). in addition , bills should be a tool to actively engage consumers in the market , so that consumers can manage their consumption patterns and make greener choices. ### (37) bills and billing information are an important means to inform and empower final customers. energy bills remain the most common consumer concern and source of consumer complaints , a factor that contributes to the persistently low levels of consumer satisfaction and engagement in the gas sector. provisions for billing information in the gas sector also lag behind rights granted to consumers in the electricity sector. it is therefore necessary to align them and to set minimum requirements for bills and billing information in the gas sector , so that consumers have access to transparent , easy to understand information. bills should convey information to the final consumers on their consumption and costs , thus facilitating comparison between offers and switching supplier , as well as information on their consumer rights (such as on alternative dispute resolution). in addition , bills should be a tool to actively engage consumers in the market , so that consumers can manage their consumption patterns and make greener choices. it is important to provide comprehensive and accurate information to consumers to ensure they are aware of their environmental impact and , thus , consumers can express their preference for the most sustainable energy carriers.


### (45) member states should take appropriate measures , such as providing benefits by means of their social security systems , to ensure the necessary supply to vulnerable customers , or providing for support for energy efficiency improvements , to address energy poverty where identified pursuant to article 3(3) , point (d) of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 of the european parliament and of the council9 , including in the broader context of poverty. such measures could differ according to the particular circumstances in the member states in question and could include social or energy policy measures relating to the payment of gas bills , to investment in the energy efficiency of residential buildings , or to consumer protection such as disconnection safeguards. ### (45) member states should take appropriate measures , such as providing benefits by means of their social security systems , to ensure the necessary supply to vulnerable customers , or providing for support for energy efficiency improvements , to address energy poverty where identified pursuant to article 3(3) , point (d) of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 of the european parliament and of the council9 , including in the broader context of poverty. such measures could differ according to the particular circumstances in the member states in question and should include social or energy policy measures relating to the payment of gas bills , to investment in the energy efficiency of residential buildings , or to consumer protection such as disconnection safeguards.


### 4. the obligations laid down in paragraph 2 shall apply regardless of whether low carbon fuels are produced within the union or are imported. information about the geographic origin and feedstock type of low carbon fuels or low carbon hydrogen per fuel supplier shall be made available to consumers on the websites of operators , suppliers or the relevant competent authorities and shall be updated on an annual basis. ### 4. the obligations laid down in paragraph 2 shall apply regardless of whether low carbon fuels are produced within the union or are imported. information about the geographic origin , recognition that the energy content is derived from non-renewable sources and feedstock type of low carbon fuels or low carbon hydrogen per fuel supplier shall be made available to consumers , including on the websites of operators , suppliers or the relevant competent authorities and shall be updated on an annual basis.


### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers , and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers. in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty. measures to protect vulnerable consumers may include , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection to such customers in critical times. ### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers , and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers. in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty. measures to protect vulnerable consumers may include , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection to such customers in critical times. the concept of vulnerable customers may include income levels , the share of energy expenditure of disposable income , the energy efficiency of homes , critical dependence on electrical equipment for health reasons , age or other criteria.


### 2. the provisions of this directive shall not prevent the conclusion of long-term contracts for renewable and low carbon gases in so far as they comply with union competition rules and contribute to decarbonisation. no long-term contracts for supply of unabated fossil gas shall be concluded with a duration beyond the end of year 2049 . ### 2. the provisions of this directive shall not prevent the conclusion of long-term contracts for renewable and low carbon gases in so far as they comply with union competition rules and contribute to decarbonisation. no new long-term contracts for supply of unabated fossil gas shall be concluded after the entry into force of this directive with a duration beyond the end of year 2049.


### 2. having full regard to the relevant provisions of the tfeu , in particular article 106 thereof , member states may impose on natural gas and hydrogen undertakings , in the general economic interest , public service obligations which may relate to security , including security of supply , regularity , and quality of supplies , and environmental protection , including energy efficiency , energy from renewable sources and climate protection. such obligations shall be clearly defined , transparent , non-discriminatory , verifiable and shall guarantee equality of access for natural gas undertakings and hydrogen undertakings of the union to national consumers. ### 2. having full regard to the relevant provisions of the tfeu , in particular article 106 thereof , member states may impose on natural gas and hydrogen undertakings , in the general economic interest , public service obligations which may relate to security , including security of supply , regularity , quality and price of supplies , and environmental protection , including energy efficiency , energy from renewable sources and climate protection. such obligations shall be clearly defined , transparent , non-discriminatory , verifiable and shall guarantee equality of access for natural gas undertakings and hydrogen undertakings of the union to national consumers. public service obligations which concern the price setting for the supply of gases shall comply with the requirements set out in article 4 of this directive.


### 3. public service obligations related to the security of gas supply shall not go beyond what is necessary to ensure compliance with the gas supply standards pursuant to article 6 of regulation (eu) 2017/1938 and shall be coherent with the results of the national risk assessments carried out pursuant to article 7(3) , as detailed in the preventive action plans prepared pursuant to article 9(1) , points (c) ,(d) and (k) of the same regulation. ### deleted


### 2. member states shall ensure the deployment in their territories of smart metering systems. such deployment may be subject to a cost-benefit assessment which shall be undertaken in accordance with the principles laid down in annex ii. ### 2. member states shall ensure the deployment in their territories of smart metering systems that assist the active participation of customers. such deployment may be subject to a cost-benefit assessment which shall be undertaken in accordance with the principles laid down in annex ii.


### (15) public service obligations in the form of price setting for the supply of natural gas should be used without overriding the principle of open markets in clearly defined circumstances and beneficiaries and should be limited in duration. in order to mitigate the distortive effects of public service obligations in price setting for the supply of natural gas , member states applying such interventions should put in place additional measures , including measures to prevent distortions of price setting in the wholesale market. member states should ensure that all beneficiaries of regulated prices are able to benefit fully from the offers available on the competitive market when they choose to do so. to that end , they should be directly and regularly informed of the offers and savings available on the competitive market , and should be provided with assistance to respond to and benefit from market-based offers. ### (15) public service obligations in the form of price setting for the supply of natural gas should be used without overriding the principle of open markets in clearly defined circumstances and beneficiaries and should be limited in duration. such circumstances might occur for example where supply is severely constrained , causing significantly higher gas prices than normal , or in the event of a market failure where interventions by regulatory authorities and competition authorities have proven to be ineffective. this would disproportionately affect households and , in particular , vulnerable customers who typically expend a higher share of their disposable income on energy bills compared to high-income consumers. in order to mitigate the distortive effects of public service obligations in price setting for the supply of natural gas , member states applying such interventions should put in place additional measures , including measures to prevent distortions of price setting in the wholesale market. member states should ensure that all beneficiaries of regulated prices are able to benefit fully from the offers available on the competitive market when they choose to do so. to that end , they should be directly and regularly informed of the offers and savings available on the competitive market , and should be provided with assistance to respond to and benefit from market-based offers.


### (22) the natural gas market witnesses poor customer satisfaction and engagement as well as slow uptake of new renewable and low-carbon gases , which all reflect limited competition in many member states. unlike falling prices in wholesale markets , natural gas prices for household customers rose in the last decade resulting in household consumers paying two or three times more for their natural gas consumption than industrial customers. ### (22) the natural gas market witnesses poor customer satisfaction and engagement as well as slow uptake of new renewable and low-carbon gases , which all reflect limited competition in many member states. natural gas prices for household customers rose in the last decade resulting in household consumers paying two or three times more for their natural gas consumption than industrial customers.


### (108) the regulatory authorities and acer should provide information on the hydrogen market to ensure transparency , including aspects such as supply and demand , transport infrastructure , quality of service , cross-border trade , investments , consumer prices , market liquidity. ### (108) the regulatory authorities and acer should provide information on the hydrogen market to ensure transparency , including aspects such as supply and demand , transport infrastructure , quality of service , sources , cross-border trade , investments , consumer prices , market liquidity.


### (111) the energy system integration strategy points out the importance of the coordinated planning and operation of the energy system in achieving the decarbonisation objectives. therefore it is necessary to draw up a network development plan based on a joint scenario developed on a cross-sectoral basis. while still keeping separate sectorial plans , infrastructure operators should work towards a higher level of integration taking into account system needs beyond specific energy carriers. ### (111) the energy system integration strategy points out the importance of the coordinated planning and operation of the energy system in achieving the decarbonisation objectives. therefore it is necessary to draw up a network development plan based on a joint scenario developed on a cross-sectoral basis. while still keeping separate sectorial plans for natural gas and hydrogen on the one hand and electricity on the other hand , infrastructure operators should work towards a higher level of integration taking into account system needs beyond specific energy carriers.


### (113) providing information on infrastructure that can be decommissioned within the network development plan may mean either leaving the infrastructure unused , dismantling it or using it for other purposes , such as hydrogen transport. the objective of this increased transparency on infrastructure takes into account that repurposed infrastructure is comparatively cheaper than newly built infrastructure and hence should enable a cost effective transition. ### (113) providing information on infrastructure that can be decommissioned or repurposed within the network development plan may mean either leaving the infrastructure unused , dismantling it or using it for other purposes , such as hydrogen transport. the objective of this increased transparency on infrastructure takes into account that repurposed infrastructure is comparatively cheaper than newly built infrastructure and hence should enable a cost effective transition. therefore , a joint network development plan of transmission system operators and hydrogen network operators should support the synergies between the natural gas and hydrogen networks and , by that , lead the way to a faster and more cost-efficient development of the hydrogen infrastructure.


### (114) in member states where a hydrogen network will be developed , reporting on the development of hydrogen infrastructure should ensure that the construction of a hydrogen system is based on a realistic and forward-looking demand projections including potential needs from the perspective of the electricity system. if member states decide to allow for dedicated charges as a means of co-funding new hydrogen infrastructure , the report should support the regulatory authority in its assessment of these charges. the report should be submitted to the regulatory authority on a regular basis to be decided by the regulatory authority. in light of the ramp-up character of the hydrogen market , a disproportionate and continuous sequencing of the reporting obligation should however be avoided. ### (114) in member states where a hydrogen network will be developed , the network development plan hydrogen infrastructure should ensure that the construction of a hydrogen system is based on a realistic and forward-looking demand projections including potential needs from the perspective of the electricity system. if member states decide to allow for dedicated charges as a means of co-funding new hydrogen infrastructure , the network development plan should support the regulatory authority in its assessment of these charges.


### (125) long-term contracts are an important part of the gas supply of member states . however , they should not constitute a barrier to the entry of renewable and low carbon gases , which is why the duration of contracts for the supply of fossil gas will not be able to run beyond 2049. such contracts shall always be in line with the objective of this directive and are compatible with the tfeu , including the competition rules. it is necessary to take into account long-term contracts in the planning of supply and transport capacity of undertakings. ### (125) long-term contracts are an important part of the gas supply of member states . however , they should not constitute a barrier to the entry of renewable and low carbon gases , which is why the duration of new contracts concluded after the entry into force of the directive for the supply of unabated fossil gas will not be able to run beyond 2049. such contracts shall always be in line with the objective of this directive and are compatible with the tfeu , including the competition rules. it is necessary to take into account long-term contracts in the planning of supply and transport capacity of undertakings.


### 1. member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that natural gas undertakings and eligible customers , wherever they are located , are able to obtain access to upstream pipeline networks , including facilities supplying technical services incidental to such access , in accordance with this article , except for the parts of such networks and facilities which are used for local production operations at the site of a field where the gas is produced. the measures shall be notified to the commission in accordance with the provisions of article 88. ### 1. member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that natural gas undertakings and eligible customers , wherever they are located , are able to obtain access to upstream pipeline networks , including facilities supplying technical services incidental to such access and network related components , in accordance with this article , except for the parts of such networks and facilities which are used for local production operations at the site of a field where the gas is produced. the measures shall be notified to the commission in accordance with the provisions of article 88.


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


### 2. the transmission system operators shall not be entitled to refuse economically reasonable and technically feasable connection requests of a new production facility installation for renewable and low carbon gases. ### 2. the transmission system operators shall not be entitled to refuse economically reasonable and technically feasable connection requests of a new production facility installation for renewable and low carbon gases. production facilities installations for renewable gases shall have priority to connect over facilities for low carbon gases.


### 9. the distribution system operators shall not be entitled to refuse economically reasonable and technically feasible connection requests of a new production facility for renewable and low carbon gases. ### 9. the distribution system operators shall not be entitled to refuse economically reasonable and technically feasible connection requests of a new production facility for renewable and low carbon gases. production facilities for renewable gases shall have priority to connect over facilities for low carbon gases.


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


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


### include information on infrastructure that can or will be decommissioned; and ### include information on infrastructure that can or will be decommissioned or repurposed for the transport of hydrogen , especially to rapidly deliver hydrogen to industrial customers in hard-to-decarbonise sectors with the highest greenhouse gas abatement potential and where no other more energy and cost efficient options are available;


### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets . ### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator and the hydrogen network operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , in particular decommissioning or repurposing of infrastructure as well as demand-side solutions not requiring new infrastructure , and expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator and the hydrogen network operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage , power to gas assets and hydrogen-ready plants. the hydrogen network operator shall include information on the location of industrial customers in hard-to-decarbonise sectors with the highest greenhouse gas abatement potential. the transmission system operator and hydrogen network operator shall make reasonable assumptions about the evolution of production , supply and consumption.


### 5. the regulatory authority shall examine whether the ten-year network development plan covers all investment needs identified during the consultation process , and whether it is consistent with the most recent union wide simulation of disruption scenarios carried out by the entso for gas under article 7 of regulation (eu) 2017/1938 , with the regional and national risk assessments and the non-binding union -wide ten-year network development plan ( union -wide network development plan) referred to in article 30(1) , point (b) , of regulation (eu) 2019/943 . if any doubt arises as to the consistency with the union -wide network development plan , the regulatory authority shall consult acer . the regulatory authority may require the transmission system operator to amend its ten-year network development plan. ### 5. the regulatory authority shall examine whether the ten-year network development plan covers all investment needs identified during the consultation process , and whether it is consistent with the most recent union wide simulation of disruption scenarios carried out by the entso for gas under article 7 of regulation (eu) 2017/1938 , with the regional and national risk assessments , the union-wide ten-year network development plans referred to in article 29 and article 43 of regulation ... [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) and the non-binding union -wide ten-year network development plan ( union -wide network development plan) referred to in article 30(1) , point (b) , of regulation (eu) 2019/943 . if any doubt arises as to the consistency with the union -wide network development plan , the regulatory authority shall consult acer . the regulatory authority may require the transmission system operator or the hydrogen network operator to amend its ten-year network development plan.


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


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


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


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


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


### article 52 ### deleted


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


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


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


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


### taking the examination and assessment of the overview of the development of the hydrogen transport infrastructure as requested under point (g) into account in its approval of dedicated charges within the meaning of article 4 of [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx]. ### taking the examination and assessment of the overview of the development of the hydrogen transport infrastructure as requested under point (ee) into account in its approval of dedicated charges within the meaning of article 4 of [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx].


### monitoring investment plans of the transmission system operators , and providing in its annual report an assessment of the investment plans of the transmission system operators as regards their consistency with the union -wide network development plan referred to in point (x) of article 29 of [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx] ; such assessment may include recommendations to amend those investment plans; ### monitoring investment plans of the transmission system operators and hydrogen network operators , and providing in its annual report an assessment of the investment plans of the transmission system operators and hydrogen network operators as regards their consistency with the union -wide network development plan referred to in point (x) of article 29 and article 43 of [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx] ; such assessment may include recommendations to amend those investment plans;


### (dd) ensuring a transparent and efficient process for the setting up of the national network development plan in line with the requirements set out in articles 51 and 52; ### (dd) ensuring a transparent and efficient process for the setting up of the national network development plan in line with the requirements set out in article 51;


### (ee) approving and amending the network development plan; ### (ee) approving and amending the network development plan as referred to in article 51;


### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to share securely data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , user convenience and wide usability. member states should ensure equal access to digital identification to all their nationals and residents. ### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to share and receive securely data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , user convenience and wide usability. member states should ensure that such framework does not lead to the widening of the digital divide and therefore they should ensure equal and free of charge access to digital identification to all their nationals and individuals present in their territory , in particular persons with disabilities and with functional limitations , such as elderly persons , persons with limited access to digital infrastructure and digital skills , socioeconomically disadvantaged groups and individuals , refugees , asylum seekers and migrants.


### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to share securely data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , user convenience and wide usability. member states should ensure equal access to digital identification to all their nationals and residents. ### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to share securely data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user and to receive securely the data in a user-friendly way. european digital identity framework should reflect shared values and uphold fundamental rights , strong ethical aspects , legal safeguards and liability , thus protecting our democratic societies and citizens. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , user convenience and wide usability. member states should ensure equal access to digital identification to all their nationals and residents.


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


### (5) to support the competitiveness of european businesses , online service providers should be able to rely on digital identity solutions recognised across the union , irrespective of the member state in which they have been issued , thus benefiting from a harmonised european approach to trust , security and interoperability. users and service providers alike should be able to benefit from the same legal value provided to electronic attestations of attributes across the union. ### (5) to support the competitiveness of european businesses , online service providers should be able to rely on digital identity solutions recognised across the union , irrespective of the member state in which they have been issued , thus benefiting from a harmonised european approach to trust , security and interoperability. users and service providers alike should be able to benefit from the same legal value provided to electronic attestations of attributes across the union. this would contribute to the creation of more digitally integrated union , take down the digital barriers between member states and empower the european citizens to enjoy the benefits of digitalization.


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


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


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


### (12) to ensure that the european digital identity framework is open to innovation , technological development and future-proof , member states should be encouraged to set-up jointly sandboxes to test innovative solutions in a controlled and secure environment in particular to improve the functionality , protection of personal data , security and interoperability of the solutions and to inform future updates of technical references and legal requirements. this environment should foster the inclusion of european small and medium enterprises , start-ups and individual innovators and researchers. ### (12) to ensure that the european digital identity framework is open to innovation , technological development and future-proof , member states should be encouraged to set-up jointly sandboxes to test innovative solutions in a controlled and secure environment in particular to improve the functionality , protection of personal data , security and interoperability of the solutions and to inform future updates of technical references and legal requirements. this environment should foster the inclusion of european small and medium enterprises , start-ups and individual innovators and researchers. synergies with the second phase of implementation of the wifi4eu initiative should be explored , namely the single authentication service , to enable seamless interoperability and roaming between wireless networks , in full compliance with data protection legislation and applicable privacy rules.


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


### (17) service providers use the identity data provided by the set of person identification data available from electronic identification schemes pursuant to regulation (eu) no 910/2014 in order to match users from another member state with the legal identity of that user. however , despite the use of the eidas data set , in many cases ensuring an accurate match requires additional information about the user and specific unique identification procedures at national level. to further support the usability of electronic identification means , this regulation should require member states to take specific measures to ensure a correct identity match in the process of electronic identification. for the same purpose , this regulation should also extend the mandatory minimum data set and require the use of a unique and persistent electronic identifier in conformity with union law in those cases where it is necessary to legally identify the user upon his/her request in a unique and persistent way. ### (17) service providers use the identity data provided by the set of person identification data available from electronic identification schemes pursuant to regulation (eu) no 910/2014 in order to match users from another member state with the legal identity of that user. . however , despite the use of the eidas data set , in many cases ensuring an accurate match requires additional information about the user and specific unique identification procedures at national level. to further support the usability of electronic identification means , this regulation should require member states to take specific measures to ensure a correct identity match in the process of electronic identification. for the same purpose , this regulation should also extend the mandatory minimum data set and require the use of a unique and persistent electronic identifier in conformity with union law in those cases where it is necessary to legally identify the user upon his/her request in a unique and persistent way. specifically , this requirement should not be read as a call for a centralized identity register in the union. reliance would be placed on decentralized national registers with a persistent identifiers to be provided for cross-border use only when required by law of the member state where the identification takes place.


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


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


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


### (18) in line with directive (eu) 2019/88222 , persons with disabilities should be able to use the european digital identity wallets , trust services and end-user products used in the provision of those services on an equal basis with other users. ### (18) in line with directive (eu) 2019/88222 and the united nations convention on the rights of persons1a , persons with disabilities should be able to use the european digital identity wallets , trust services and end-user products used in the provision of those services on an equal basis with other users.


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


### (29) the european digital identity wallet should technically enable the selective disclosure of attributes to relying parties. this feature should become a basic design feature thereby reinforcing convenience and personal data protection including minimisation of processing of personal data. ### (29) the european digital identity wallet should technically enable the selective disclosure of attributes to relying parties. this feature should become a basic design feature thereby reinforcing convenience and personal data protection including minimisation of processing of personal data. mechanisms for the validation of the european digital identity wallet , selective disclosures and authentication of users to access online services should respect the right to pseudonimity.


### (43) ‘attribute’ is a feature , characteristic or quality of a natural or legal person or of an entity , in electronic form; ### (43) ‘attribute’ is a characteristic or quality of a natural or legal person or of an entity , in electronic form;


### (52) ‘credential’ means a proof of a person’s abilities , experience , right or permission; ### (52) ‘credential’ means an authentication of attributes of a person’s abilities , experience , right or permission;


### (46) ‘authentic source’ is a repository or system , held under the responsibility of a public sector body or private entity , that contains attributes about a natural or legal person and is considered to be the primary source of that information or recognised as authentic in national law; ### (46) ‘authentic source’ is a repository or system , held under the responsibility of a public sector body or private entity , that contains attributes , and is responsible for cancelling them , about a natural or legal person and is considered to be the primary source of that information or recognised as authentic in national law;


### pseudonyms in electronic transaction ### pseudonyms in electronic transactions


### without prejudice to the legal effect given to pseudonyms under national law , the use of pseudonyms in electronic transactions shall not be prohibited.; ### without prejudice to the legal effect given to pseudonyms under national law , the use of pseudonyms in electronic transactions , where possible , shall always be allowed and implemented.


### without prejudice to the legal effect given to pseudonyms under national law , the use of pseudonyms in electronic transactions shall not be prohibited.; ### without prejudice to the legal effect given to pseudonyms under national law , the use of pseudonyms in electronic transactions shall not be prohibited as long as personal identification is not necessary for the electronic transaction in question.;


### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural persons. ### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural persons. a delegated act shall determine the business model for european digital wallets.


### 7. the user shall be in full control of the european digital identity wallet. the issuer of the european digital identity wallet shall not collect information about the use of the wallet which are not necessary for the provision of the wallet services , nor shall it combine person identification data and any other personal data stored or relating to the use of the european digital identity wallet with personal data from any other services offered by this issuer or from third-party services which are not necessary for the provision of the wallet services , unless the user has expressly requested it. personal data relating to the provision of european digital identity wallets shall be kept physically and logically separate from any other data held. if the european digital identity wallet is provided by private parties in accordance to paragraph 1 (b) and (c) , the provisions of article 45f paragraph 4 shall apply mutatis mutandis. ### 7. the user or trusted third party appointed by a judicial authority shall be in full control of the european digital identity wallet. the issuer of the european digital identity wallet shall not collect information about the use of the wallet which are not necessary for the provision of the wallet services , nor shall it combine person identification data and any other personal data stored or relating to the use of the european digital identity wallet with personal data from any other services offered by this issuer or from third-party services which are not necessary for the provision of the wallet services , unless the user has expressly requested it. personal data relating to the provision of european digital identity wallets shall be kept physically and logically separate from any other data held. if the european digital identity wallet is provided by private parties in accordance to paragraph 1 (b) and (c) , the provisions of article 45f paragraph 4 shall apply mutatis mutandis.


### ensure that the person identification data referred to in articles 12(4) , point (d) uniquely and persistently represent the natural or legal person is associated with it. ### ensure that the person identification data referred to in articles 12(4) , point (d) uniquely representing the natural or legal person is only shared pseudonymously so it is different for different relying parties in order to prevent the association or tracking of the user across relying parties.


### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural persons. ### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural persons. enjoyment of rights and access to services , particularly government services , justice , the labour market and freedom to conduct business shall not be restricted or hindered for natural persons not using the european digital identity wallet.


### 1. where relying parties intend to rely upon european digital identity wallets issued in accordance with this regulation , they shall communicate it to the member state where the relying party is established to ensure compliance with requirements set out in union law or national law for the provision of specific services. when communicating their intention to rely on european digital identity wallets , they shall also inform about the intended use of the european digital identity wallet. ### 1. where relying parties intend to rely upon european digital identity wallets issued in accordance with this regulation , they shall request approval from the member state where the relying party is established to ensure compliance with requirements set out in union law or national law for the provision of specific services. when communicating their intention to rely on european digital identity wallets , they shall also inform about the intended use of the european digital identity wallet.


### 2. member states shall implement a common mechanism for the authentication of relying parties ### 2. member states shall implement a common mechanism for the authentication of relying parties. member states may suspend or revoke the authorisation of relying parties in the case of illegal or fraudulent use of the european digital identity wallet in their country.


### 2. european digital identity wallets shall be issued: ### 2. european digital identity wallets shall be provided:


### by a member state; ### by a member state , to itscitizens , residents or legal persons established in that country;


### independently but recognised by a member state. ### by a qualified trust service provider established in the union.


### securely request and obtain , store , select , combine and share , in a manner that is transparent to and traceable by the user , the necessary legal person identification data and electronic attestation of attributes to authenticate online and offline in order to use online public and private services; ### securely request and obtain , store , manage , select , combine and share , in a manner that is transparent to and traceable by the user , the necessary legal and natural person identification data , credentials , and electronic attestation of attributes to authenticate online and offline in order to use public and private services;


### sign by means of qualified electronic signatures. ### sign by means of qualified electronic signatures and electronic seals.


### (1) to qualified and non-qualified trust service providers issuing qualified and non-qualified electronic attestations of attributes or other qualified and non-qualified certificates for the purpose of issuing such attestations and certificates to the european digital identity wallet; ### (1) to qualified trust service providers issuing qualified electronic attestations of attributes or other qualified certificates for the purpose of issuing such attestations and certificates to the european digital identity wallet;


### meet the requirements set out in article 8 with regards to assurance level “high” , in particular as applied to the requirements for identity proofing and verification , and electronic identification means management and authentication; ### meet the requirements set out in article 8 with regards to assurance level at least “substantial” , in particular as applied to the requirements for identity proofing and verification , and electronic identification means management and authentication;


### meet the requirements set out in article 8 with regards to assurance level “high” , in particular as applied to the requirements for identity proofing and verification , and electronic identification means management and authentication; ### meet the requirements set out in article 8 with regards to assurance level “high” , in particular with regards to the integration of the electronic identification means pursuant to article 6a , paragraph4 , point ab;


### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural persons. ### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall have an assurance level ‘high’ and shall ensure cybersecurity by design. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall befree of charge to natural persons. in particular , european digital identity wallets shall provide the necessary security functionalities at the state-of-the-art and offer resistance to skilled attackers , ensure the confidentiality , integrity and availability of the content of the european digital identity wallet , including person identification data , attributes , electronic of attributes and credentials and request the secure , explicit and active user confirmation of its operation


### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural persons. ### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’.


### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural persons. ### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance at least “substantial”. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural persons.