European Network Development Planning for Integrated Energy Systems

Network planning is central to a future-proof energy system which is viable within the framework of the European Green Deal and suitable for energy systems integration. The new TEN-E regulation121 underlines this for European energy networks. The planning of cross-border network infrastructure in the European Union is carried out biannually by the European networks of transmission system operators (ENTSOs) for gas and electricity via their Ten-Year Network Development Plan (TYNDP).122 The objectives of this process comprise: - streamlining the planning of network interconnections in Europe, - assessing planned projects, - pointing out remaining infrastructure gaps as per the current planning. While initially, the challenge was to harmonize independent national planning processes, the focus has since shifted towards coordination between the electricity and gas sector, and between transmission and distribution networks. Figure 1 depicts the analytical steps of the TYNDP, namely scenario building, identification of system needs and infrastructure gaps, and cost– benefit analysis. This provides the basis for the subsequent selection of projects of common interest (PCIs). Based on their panEuropean relevance, these projects are eligible for additional support as well as funding via the Connecting Europe Facility.