Map taken from Interactive PCI Map

The map shows the EU’s ongoing energy infrastructure investment known as Projects of Common Interest. It includes high voltage electricity lines, natural gas pipelines, oil pipelines, CO2 shipping routes and CO2 pipelines.

Other projects include Smart Grids and electricity, natural gas and oil infrastructure.

The European Commission explains that:

Projects of common interest (PCIs) are key cross border infrastructure projects that link the energy systems of EU countries. They are intended to help the EU achieve its energy policy and climate objectives: affordable, secure and sustainable energy for all citizens, and the long-term decarbonisation of the economy in accordance with the Paris Agreement.

Who can become a PCI ?

The project must have a significant impact on energy markets and market integration in at least two EU countries, boost competition on energy markets and help the EU’s energy security by diversifying sources as well as contribute to the EU’s climate and energy goals by integrating renewables.

There are several examples of projects on their website.

They include:

The Celtic Interconnector – The Celtic Interconnector between Ireland and Brittany in France will enable the two countries to exchange 700 megawatts of electricity, the equivalent of supplying power to around 450,000 homes. It will provide Ireland’s only direct energy connection to continental Europe, therefore enhancing security of supply for Irish electricity users, reducing the cost of electricity for consumers in Ireland and facilitating Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon energy future.

COBRAcable – COBRAcable is a new offshore link, stretching approximately 350km and with a capacity of 700 megawatts, that connects Denmark and the Netherlands.

The Biscay Gulf Interconnector – The new 370 km-long electricity link through the Bay of Biscay will strengthen the interconnection between Spain and France and improve security and guarantee of supply.

Germany North-South connection – This project is part of the German grid expansion programme and aims to increase capacity at Germany’s northern and southern borders.

IGB pipeline – The Gas Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB Pipeline) will provide a direct link between the national natural gas systems of Greece and Bulgaria.

Balticconnector – The Balticconnector pipeline, together with a gas link between Poland and Lithuania (GIPL), connects the Finnish gas network with the Continental European Network, ending Finland’s gas isolation.

Baltic Synchronisation project – This project will allow for the synchronous operation of the Baltic States’ electricity network with European networks and thus enhance security.

Estonia-Latvia third electricity interconnector – The Estonia–Latvia third interconnector will consist of a 211 km-long transmission line that will contribute to the synchronisation of the Baltic States with European networks, alleviating congestion on the border and ensuring effectiveness of the operation of both systems.

SINCRO.GRID – The SINCRO.GRID is a virtual cross-border control center that facilitates new electricity generation from renewable energy sources in Slovenia and Croatia and its safe and efficient integration into the grid.

Smart Border Initiative – The Smart Border Initiative (SBI) is a smart grid project that optimises the use of resources and at the same time addresses the needs of regions separated by national borders. This project will enable the Saarland and Lorraine regions to develop joint solutions for common challenges by making better use of the region’s energy efficiency and renewable energy potential.

Projects of Common Interest (PCIs) are eligible for funding from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), the EU’s €30 billion fund for boosting energy, transport, and digital infrastructure.

You can see an interactive version of the map here.