Projects of Common Interest

The European Commission has identified that a modern infrastructure with adequate interconnectors and reliable networks is crucial for an integrated energy market where consumers get the best value for their money. In October 2013, the European Commission published its first list of ‘Projects of Common Interest’ (PCI). North Sea Link is one of 248 key energy infrastructure projects selected to be a PCI. 

Amongst other things PCI projects will benefit from faster and more efficient permit granting procedures, and improved regulatory treatment and potential access to financial support from the Connecting Europe Facility.

In order to qualify as a PCI project, it must:

• Deliver significant benefits for at least two European Member States
• Further support market integration and competition
• Enhance security of energy supply
• Contribute to reducing CO2 emissions

PCIs are governed under Regulation (EU) No 347/2013 on guidelines for trans-European energy infrastructure, referred to as the TEN-E Regulations.

A link to the TEN-E Regulations is provided below.

For more information on PCIs please visit the European Commission’s website.

Download the Department for Energy and Climate Change Manual of Procedures for TEN-E projects here.