State Secretary Dr. Žagar in Luxembourg Discusses the Development of Energy Networks

SLOVENIA, June 26 - Faster Development of Energy Networks

EU energy ministers endorsed the legislative package on European energy networks, which aims to accelerate the development of electricity and other energy networks while simplifying permitting procedures for key energy infrastructure projects. Faster deployment of energy networks is one of the key prerequisites for a successful energy transition, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, increasing the use of all clean energy sources, and strengthening the European Union's energy security and resilience.

Slovenia supported the proposed measures, recognising the importance of faster deployment of grid infrastructure and clean energy technologies to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. State Secretary for Energy Dr. Tomaž Žagar stressed that the new rules must be sufficiently simple to ensure that permitting procedures are genuinely accelerated rather than creating additional administrative burdens.

Ministers also endorsed the revision of the Trans-European Networks for Energy (TEN-E) Regulation, which sets the framework for the development of key cross-border energy infrastructure across the European Union. Slovenia supported the Council's general approach while emphasising that the financing arrangements for cross-border energy projects must fairly reflect the interests of all Member States.

"In the forthcoming negotiations, Slovenia will advocate, in particular, for a more appropriate framework for the allocation of revenues from cross-border transmission capacity," said Dr. Žagar.

Clear Objectives and Technological Neutrality Beyond 2030

Ministers also discussed the future framework of the EU's energy policy beyond 2030 and the measures needed to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

"The future energy framework must, alongside climate objectives, ensure a secure energy supply, strengthen the competitiveness of the European economy, and reinforce the European Union's strategic autonomy. We need a simple and predictable framework with a clear objective that supports the decarbonisation of Europe's energy system through the use of all clean energy technologies—both renewable and nuclear—while allowing Member States to build on their own strengths," said State Secretary Dr. Tomaž Žagar.

Slovenia supports a technology-neutral approach, increased investment in energy infrastructure, accelerated electrification, and the development of renewable and low-carbon fuels where electrification is not feasible. According to Dr. Žagar, fossil fuels will also continue to play an important role during the transition period in ensuring a secure energy supply. Their use should therefore be planned responsibly and in a way that safeguards energy security.

A Coordinated European Response to the Situation in the Middle East

A significant part of the discussion focused on the impact of developments in the Middle East on European energy security. Slovenia supported continued diplomatic efforts to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and stressed that only a coordinated European approach can effectively mitigate the consequences of potential disruptions to energy supplies, protect households and businesses, and preserve the stability of the EU's internal energy market.

Dr. Žagar emphasised that the current situation should also serve as an opportunity to accelerate investments in clean energy, energy efficiency, and electrification, thereby reducing the European Union's long-term dependence on imported and price-volatile fossil fuels. He also noted that, given the increasingly unpredictable geopolitical environment, maintaining a secure energy supply from all available sources will remain essential. Equally important will be timely, clear, and coordinated communication with the public regarding any potential impacts on energy markets.

Nuclear Alliance Meeting

On the margins of the Council meeting, State Secretary Dr. Žagar also attended a meeting of the Nuclear Alliance, a group of countries that support the use of nuclear energy and are planning significant expansions of their nuclear programmes. The main topic of discussion was the exchange of views on the policy framework beyond 2030.