In a decisive move to strengthen Europe’s energy and industrial future, the European Parliament expressed two resolutions focused on upgrading the EU’s electricity grid infrastructure and reinforcing its industrial base in the face of the clean energy transition.

The votes come amid growing concerns over infrastructure vulnerabilities and industrial competitiveness, with the April blackout in the Iberian Peninsula serving as a wake-up call for accelerated action on energy resilience.

Modernising Europe’s Electricity Grids: €584 Billion Needed

MEPs backed a comprehensive implementation of the EU Grid Action Plan, calling for:

• €584 billion in investment by 2030 to modernise and expand grid capacity.

• Stronger cross-border interconnections and national-level upgrades.

• Streamlined permitting procedures to speed up grid projects.

• Clear incentives for private investment alongside public funding.

• Measures to prevent renewable energy curtailment due to outdated infrastructure.

Anna Sturgkh (Renew, Austria), lead MEP on the resolution, stated:

“The Iberian blackout showed how critical grid resilience is. Without strategic investments in infrastructure, Europe’s energy transition will remain vulnerable. We need coordination, storage, and decisive planning.”

MEPs stressed that renewable integration, cross-sector connectivity, and public communication are essential to ensure successful grid upgrades across Member States.

Clean Industrial Deal: Balancing Climate Goals with Economic Strength

In a parallel resolution, the Parliament expressed strong support for the Clean Industrial Deal, the European Commission’s strategy to future-proof EU industry. MEPs highlighted:

• The need for affordable energy through a dedicated action plan.

• Simplified and accelerated permitting for clean technology deployment.

• Strengthening the Industrial Decarbonisation Bank to boost investment.

• Support for lead markets for EU-made clean and circular products.

• Implementation of a robust carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) to defend against unfair global competition.

Tom Berendsen (EPP, Netherlands), rapporteur for the file, said:

“The Clean Industrial Deal is a vital first step. It’s about securing jobs, reducing emissions, and ensuring that Europe remains competitive and autonomous in a changing world.”

Next Steps

• The grid modernisation report was adopted with 418 votes in favour, while the Clean Industrial Deal resolution passed with 381 votes.

• The European Commission is expected to present a European Grids Package by the end of 2025 and continue implementation of the Clean Industrial Deal, launched in February.

Background

The electricity blackout of 28 April 2025, which impacted parts of Spain, Portugal, and France, underscored the urgent need to enhance EU grid resilience and cross-border interconnection. Meanwhile, the EU’s industrial base faces pressure to decarbonise while maintaining competitiveness and innovation leadership.

Together, the two resolutions signal the Parliament’s determination to address the twin challenges of climate neutrality and economic resilience, laying the groundwork for a greener, stronger Europe.