Trans-European energy networks: the external dimension

The Committee adopted the report by Gordon ADAM (UK, PES) on the Commission communication concerning the external dimension of trans-European energy networks. This programme aims to analyse the existing natural gas and electricity interconnections between the member states and third countries, to look at the projects that have been undertaken and the energy policy and financial support instruments used to promote the development and interconnection of energy networks. Particular attention is paid to future challenges in such regions as the Balkans, the Baltic States and the countries of the Mediterranean Basin. The Commission was called on to regulate the use of the funds which permit application of Community programmes, such as PHARE, TACIS, MEDA and SYNERGY, EIB loans or EIF loan guarantees. The aim is to give priority, with regard to regional oil pipelines networks, to the promotion of interconnections, interoperability and the development of natural gas and electricity networks. The criterion for this is an increase in the Community's security of supply under the quantity, quality and price conditions which most closely meet the requirements of economic policy. An amendment was adopted, calling on the Commission to identify the technical bottlenecks in the trans- and pan-European electricity network interconnections, for example by completing the "Baltic Ring". So far a marine cable has been laid from Finland to Sweden and there is a link from Sweden to Denmark and Germany. However at present there is no proper link from Germany through Poland to the Baltic States. �