Coordinated safeguards for transmission and cross-border disruption
European electricity network operators are seeking tighter and more coordinated protection of transmission infrastructure as cyberattacks, physical sabotage and cross-border disruption become larger risks. The push comes as the power system becomes increasingly interconnected. ENTSO-E said the proposals also reflect concern that a more digitalised grid is simultaneously more important to the economy and more exposed to disruption.
ENTSO-E said offshore and subsea infrastructure requires particular attention as Europe expands interconnectors and offshore renewable generation. It called for a regional framework covering monitoring, protection and restoration of critical assets. The organisation also wants more consistent penalties for deliberate interference with energy infrastructure.
Faster emergency logistics and clearer roles for authorities
ENTSO-E is seeking faster mechanisms for moving replacement equipment, network components and specialist teams across borders during emergencies. The organisation argued that procurement and administrative procedures can slow recovery from major incidents. It said the ability to restore network operations quickly depends on cross-border movement during disruptions.
Responsibilities between transmission system operators and national authorities should be more clearly defined, ENTSO-E said. The areas include threat detection, crisis management and post-incident recovery. ENTSO-E’s proposals aim to align operational actions during security events with national oversight.
Risk assessments, minimum standards and EU-backed security costs
ENTSO-E proposed a Europe-wide electricity system risk assessment to identify vulnerable assets and guide investment. It said minimum security standards would cover physical protection, redundancy, backup capacity, emergency preparedness and restoration capability. The approach is intended to set baseline requirements across the interconnected system.
ENTSO-E also said security spending should be recognised as a normal network cost. It added that European Union financing could potentially be used to support physical and cyber-protection measures. The proposals place emphasis on funding arrangements alongside operational requirements for critical assets.
