Published: Wed, 10 December 2025
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MEP for Ireland South and Leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament, Seán Kelly, has today welcomed the publication of the European Commission’s long-awaited EU Grids Package, describing it as a critical step toward strengthening competitiveness and ending its dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Speaking at the European Parliament today following the publication, Mr Kelly said the package sends a clear signal that Europe is finally treating the electricity grid with the appropriate level of importance in terms of climate action, competitiveness and energy security.
“In 2024 alone, the EU spent €375 billion importing fossil fuels. That means €43 million left European Union every single hour to buy coal, oil and gas from outside our borders. This is a problem both economically and geopolitically, and we must act to address this situation with urgency.”
Mr Kelly welcomed the proposed measures to fast-track permitting for grid, storage and renewable projects, including the designation of such projects as being in the ‘Overriding Public Interest’ and given priority. He said these reforms are essential if Europe is to match its ambition to be a net zero, competitive economy.
“If we genuinely want to deliver on climate action and competitiveness then we simply must start building infrastructure faster. We cannot allow the perfect to become the enemy of the good, and we certainly cannot allow vital projects to be stuck in legal limbo for years based on environmental requirements.
“One thing is certain, a decarbonised Europe powered by clean electricity will do more for nature and habitats than any Judicial Review against a new overhead power line ever could.”
Mr Kelly also strongly welcomed the revision of the TEN-E Regulation, which governs the development of cross-border energy infrastructure, saying it brings the EU closer to a truly interconnected Energy Union where power can flow from where renewables are strongest to where demand is greatest.
He said the Commission’s intention to develop a central EU-level planning scenario consistent with climate and energy targets is a positive step, provided it is done in close cooperation with national Transmission System Operators.
“National TSOs like EirGrid will and must retain their vital role in ensuring a secure system and planning the grid accordingly. But this central EU scenario can be complementary and is in line with my call earlier this year for a 2050 EU grid study to map the infrastructure needed for a fully decarbonised power system. This scenario must integrate renewable generation, storage, flexibility, demand growth and interconnection to deliver the most cost-effective net zero system possible for citizens and industry.”
Mr Kelly said the Grid Package reflects the growing realisation across Europe that renewable deployment and the electrification of the economy are essential to both economic security and industrial competitiveness, in addition to the climate benefits they bring.
“Europe’s future must be powered by clean, home-grown electricity. Every renewable project, every battery, every new electricity line or cable, strengthens our independence, removes price volatility, and makes Europe a more attractive place to invest and do business.”
Concluding, Mr Kelly said he is looking forward to playing a central role in shaping the legislation as it moves through the European Parliament.
“This is one of the most important energy files of this Parliamentary term. I look forward to working constructively with colleagues in Parliament to ensure this package delivers faster infrastructure, stronger grids, and real energy independence for Europe.”
