As the European Commission prepares the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), E.DSO has prepared a dedicated contribution to highlight the essential role of Distribution System Operators (DSOs) in securing Europe’s global competitiveness, energy security, and clean energy transition.
Building on the centrality of DSOs to the success of the electrification and the resilience of Europe’s energy system, the paper outlines the increasing challenges faced by electricity grids in a rapidly evolving geopolitical and technological context. It emphasises the urgent need for targeted investments to modernise and expand grid infrastructure, integrate growing shares of renewable energy, and support the development of new energy-intensive technologies such as artificial intelligence and data centres.
The paper identifies current funding gaps and sets out key recommendations to ensure that the next MFF and its core programmes – including Horizon Europe, the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), and Cohesion Funds – are equipped to meet these challenges. It also calls for a dedicated clean energy investment strategy, including de-risking measures to attract private capital while ensuring cost fairness for consumers.
By placing DSOs at the heart of EU investment priorities, the proposed approach aims to ensure that electricity grids can effectively support affordability, sustainability, and industrial competitiveness across all regions of Europe.
