Trans-European energy networks: guidelines

The Council's common position largely followed the approach of the Commission and Parliament on the basis of the amended proposal. The main amendments incorporated in the common position related to the following points: - consultation of the EP on the implementing measures to be submitted to the committee; - the adoption of an overall energy strategy to respond to the objectives of the European Union, including with respect to the liberalisation of the energy market; - the need to encourage the production, distribution and rational use of energy resources as well as the need to reduce the cost of energy for individuals and businesses; - the interconnection of networks with third countries: this should take place in accordance with the European Energy Charter Treaty; - the conditions for eligibility for projects: in the context of assessing projects of common interest, the objectives and priorities defined in the guidelines should be respected and consideration given to economic, social and technical factors; - Member States were required to comply with Community law and international conventions on the environment when taking measures to facilitate the completion of projects of common interest and to minimise delays. The Council also introduced new provisions concerning: - the use of private capital and the need to avoid distortions of competition; - taking account of the effects of competition and the prospects of private financing or financing by the economic operators concerned; - the Council decision would be without prejudice to any financial commitment by a Member State or the Community; - removal of projects nearing completion and premature projects from the list of projects of common interest annexed to the decision; - comitology: decision in favour of a type IIIa committee (regulatory committee). �