Europe's electricity infrastructure is failing to evolve in line with the renewable energy shift, as detailed in a report by Beyond Fossil Fuels, E3G, Ember, and the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis.

The findings indicate that outdated planning and mandates are hindering the essential upgrades and expansions of the continent's electrical networks.

This stagnation is obstructing the integration of renewable and flexible energy projects, which are vital for achieving cleaner and more affordable energy.

As the EU progresses towards eliminating Russian fossil fuels, the report emphasises the critical role of grids in enabling the transition to domestic renewable sources.

Grids are essential for promoting the decarbonisation of Europe’s economy through economical power solutions.

An examination of 32 electricity transmission system operators (TSOs) across 28 nations shows that many continue to depend on outdated projections based on previous governmental objectives.

These projections fail to reflect the rapid expansion of renewable energy, serving as a hindrance to developing a flexible grid that can accommodate increasing levels of sustainable energy.

The recent power failure in the Iberian Peninsula underscored the pressing need for grid enhancements and effective governance to ensure energy resilience.

The report cautions that without revised grid planning regulations, Europe may inadvertently become reliant on fossil gas due to insufficient preparation for a renewable-centric power system.

Upgrading the grid is crucial for facilitating the electrified economy of the future.

The report's authors call for enhanced governance and oversight from governmental bodies and regulators to ensure that grid planning and investments meet contemporary requirements.

The report reveals that 1,700GW of renewable energy initiatives across 16 countries are currently delayed in grid connection processes.

Furthermore, it discovered that €7.2bn worth of renewable electricity was curtailed in just seven nations in 2024.

Only five TSOs are contemplating scenarios for a power system that substitutes coal and fossil gas with renewables by 2035. Many TSOs and energy regulators have yet to recognise the climate emergency as part of their obligations.

According to the report, merely 14 of the 23 TSOs examined hold investment-grade ratings from leading credit rating agencies, which could improve their ability to secure funding. Meanwhile, 11 TSOs have issued green bonds that have been reviewed by third parties.

"Report reveals outdated grid planning delays Europe’s renewable shift" was originally created and published by Energy Monitor, a GlobalData owned brand.