Energy Union

In a first step toward creating an integrated energy grid, the European Commission last week allocated € 200 million ($223 million) for cross-border energy infrastructure projects aimed at increasing the efficiency of energy transportation across European Union members. While these grants signal momentum toward a desired “Energy Union,” such a goal remains largely aspirational.

Officially proposed in 2015, the “Energy Union” seeks to combine modern energy infrastructure, smart grids, and the free flow of energy across state borders in order to enhance reliability, promote energy efficiency, diversify supplies, open up markets to more competition, and increase security and safety. Proponents suggest infrastructure investments would also result in significant cost savings over time and would better leverage geographical areas better suited to differing forms of renewables.

Read more on The Hill.

Find more of our opinion and analysis In the Media here.

 

Written By Brigham A. McCown, Chairman and Founder of Aii

 

The Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure (Aii) is an independent, national research and educational organization. An innovative think tank, Aii explores the intersection of economics, law, and public policy in the areas of climate, damage prevention, energy, infrastructure, innovation, technology, and transportation. (Learn more about Aii here)