Energy Minister Michalis Damianos expressed the readiness of the Cyprus Presidency to work towards a more substantive Energy Union in a doorstep statement before the EU Energy Council (TTE), the first since assuming his new portfolio.
Damianos thanked the Danish Presidency “for the excellent work it has carried out over the past few months.”
“As the incoming Presidency, Cyprus will work with determination to strengthen competitiveness, resilience and strategic autonomy in the energy sector,” he added, expressing the belief that “it is vital to reduce energy prices for our citizens, as we believe this is a central pillar of competitiveness.”
For this reason, as he explained, the “EU Grids Package is essential and of key importance. The energy crisis has demonstrated that we must act collectively as a Union in everything we do. As the Cyprus Presidency, we are ready to work towards a more substantive Energy Union,” he concluded.
At Monday’s meeting, EU Energy Ministers are expected to reach a partial agreement on the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) 2028–2034, which forms part of the negotiations on the new post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework.
The CEF will provide the legal basis for investments in trans-European transport and energy networks, including cross-border renewable energy projects and military mobility. The agreement is described as “partial,” as it does not include financial and horizontal issues, which are being discussed within the framework of the overall EU budget for the period 2028–2034.
At the same time, Ministers will hold a policy debate on the European Grids Package, aiming at the modernisation and expansion of European energy grids, in order to support rapid electrification and ensure affordable, secure and clean energy for citizens and businesses. The discussion is expected to focus on the main priorities, strategic objectives and key measures of the package.
(Source: CNA)
