The European Commission has unveiled a set of seven coordinated actions under the Affordable Energy Action Plan to lower energy costs for both industries and households, while supporting long-term energy security and decarbonization.
Although prices have fallen since their 2022 peak, they remain significantly above global averages, threatening EU industrial competitiveness.
Key measures include:
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Full use of the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework (CISAF) to provide price relief and decarbonization incentives for energy-intensive sectors.
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Guidance by end-2025 to harmonize national aid schemes.
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Reallocation of EU Cohesion Funds to modernize grids and expand storage capacity.
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A €500 million pilot program with the European Investment Bank (EIB) to support Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for stable, long-term electricity prices.
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Acceleration of permitting for renewables and grid projects under RED III.
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Expansion of cross-border energy links via the Energy Highways initiative.
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Recommendations for tax reductions on electricity, particularly for energy-intensive industries and vulnerable households.
The initiative represents the EU’s most comprehensive push yet to balance energy affordability, competitiveness, and climate commitments.
VietnamSteel by Hoa Sen Group