IP/08/1180

Brussels, 17 July 2008

No disturbances expected for electricity supply this summer under usual weather conditions

Except in the case of unusual weather conditions, no disturbances of electricity supply are expected for this summer. This is the main conclusion of the analysis of the situation for this season prepared by the Association of the European Transmission System Operators (ETSO) and presented to the Electricity Cross-Border Committee of the European Commission at the request of Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs. ETSO and the European Commission also discussed the preparatory and coordination measures by ETSO members in order to avoid or mitigate the impact of any potential disturbances in electricity supply this summer.

"I welcome the co-ordinated approach of European electricity transport network operators aiming to ensure uninterrupted services for this summer to citizens and industry", said Commissioner Piebalgs.

During the meeting of the Electricity Cross-Border Committee on 25 June 2008, it was highlighted that co-operation between the electricity transport network operators is key for preventing and solving possible problems in electricity supply. Network companies co-operate in anticipating what could happen if there were a supply shortage in Europe, for example, because of a severe weather conditions. The Electricity Cross-Border Committee includes representatives of EU Member states – ministries responsible for energy and energy regulators. ETSO made a presentation at the meeting, explaining various scenarios for electricity supply this summer.