European electricity network operators are calling for tighter and more coordinated protection of transmission infrastructure as cyberattacks, physical sabotage and cross-border disruption become larger risks. The push is linked to an increasingly interconnected power system. ENTSO-E said the proposals address concerns about how the system’s growing interconnection affects exposure to disruption.
Regional framework for offshore and subsea asset security
ENTSO-E said offshore and subsea infrastructure requires particular attention as Europe expands interconnectors and offshore renewable generation. It wants a regional framework covering monitoring, protection and restoration of critical assets. The organisation also called for more consistent penalties for deliberate interference with energy infrastructure.
Faster cross-border response during major incidents
ENTSO-E is seeking faster mechanisms for moving replacement equipment, network components and specialist teams across borders during emergencies. It argued that procurement and administrative procedures can slow recovery from major incidents. The proposal focuses on improving logistics for restoring network operations after disruption.
Europe-wide risk assessment and minimum security standards
ENTSO-E has proposed a Europe-wide electricity system risk assessment to identify vulnerable assets and guide investment. Minimum security standards would cover physical protection, redundancy, backup capacity, emergency preparedness and restoration capability. The framework is intended to set baseline requirements across the interconnected system.
Clearer roles between transmission operators and national authorities
ENTSO-E wants responsibilities between transmission system operators and national authorities more clearly defined. It highlighted areas including threat detection, crisis management and post-incident recovery. The aim is to specify how different actors handle security-related events across the system.
Recognising security spending as normal network cost
ENTSO-E 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 reflect concern that Europe’s more digitalised and interconnected electricity system is becoming simultaneously more important to the economy and more exposed to disruption.
