Europe’s grid for the future

The challenge

Nearly 40% of Europe’s electricity grids are more than four decades old. As a result, large-scale clean energy projects are left waiting for years to be connected. In 2024 alone, €7.2 billion worth of renewable power was wasted in just seven EU countries because the grid simply did not have the capacity to carry it.

Without modern infrastructure, Europe’s energy security is at risk. Citizens and businesses are left vulnerable to energy shocks and price spikes, while delays in the clean energy transition hold back progress on climate goals and competitiveness.

The fastest, most cost-effective solution is not just building new cables, it’s digitalising the grid. Smart upgrades can cut connection delays, unlocking grid capacity, and reducing energy waste. The EU estimates that €20 billion per year is needed until 2030 just for digital upgrades.

The goals

• Introduce a grid productivity metric
  Establish a simple, EU-wide benchmark to bring transparency on grid performance and highlight the benefits of digitalisation. This requires regulators to recognise digital OPEX as critical costs that can be recovered.

• Roll out smart hardware sensors
  Deploy sensors across electricity grids to create the digital backbone needed to spot problems early, ease pressure points, and improve overall resilience.

• Harness AI and data infrastructure
  Use artificial intelligence and robust data systems to forecast energy use and supply, enhancing efficiency, stability, and reliability across the grid.

KPIs by 2030

• Shorter grid connection times for new wind, solar, and industrial projects. 

• More national regulators using the Total Expenditure (ToTEX) approach, allowing both physical and digital investments to count. 

ROIs by 2030

• Fewer bottlenecks and less wasted green energy stuck waiting to enter the grid.
• More private investment per €1 of public money, delivering better value for taxpayers.
• A digitally upgraded grid that supports clean energy, powers industry, and strengthens Europe’s energy security.