Transmission and distribution of electricity
Construction and operation of transmission and distribution systems that transport electricity on the interconnected extra high-voltage, high-voltage, medium-voltage, and low-voltage systems.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Mitigation
The activity involves the construction and operation of transmission and distribution systems for electricity. The system meets one of the following criteria: (a) the system is the interconnected European system (i.e. the interconnected transmission systems and connected distribution systems of continental Europe, Great Britain, Ireland-Northern Ireland, and the Nordic and Baltic countries); (b) more than 67% of newly enabled generation capacity in the system is below the generation threshold value of 100 gCO2e/kWh over a rolling five-year period.
Alternatively, the activity involves installation of equipment and infrastructure to enable the connection of renewable and zero-emission generation, or direct connection of low-carbon generation below 100 gCO2e/kWh. The infrastructure includes smart grid solutions, electricity storage integration, demand-side management capability, and interconnection capacity. This is classified as an enabling activity under Article 10(1)(i) of Regulation (EU) 2020/852.
DNSH: Climate Change Adaptation
The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A of the Delegated Act. Climate risk and vulnerability assessments consider increased frequency of extreme weather events affecting grid infrastructure over its expected lifetime.
DNSH: Water and Marine Resources
The activity does not lead to the deterioration of the good status of bodies of water and complies with Directive 2000/60/EC. Underground or undersea cable installation follows best practices to minimise impacts on water bodies and marine ecosystems.
DNSH: Circular Economy
The activity assesses the availability of and, where feasible, adopts techniques that support reuse and recycling of grid components, including cables, transformers, and switchgear, at end of life. Waste management plans cover construction and decommissioning.
DNSH: Pollution Prevention
The activity uses SF6-free switchgear where technically feasible and does not involve the use of substances listed in Annex I or II of Regulation (EU) 2019/1021. PCB-containing equipment is identified and managed in accordance with Directive 96/59/EC on the disposal of polychlorinated biphenyls.
DNSH: Biodiversity and Ecosystems
An Environmental Impact Assessment has been completed where required under Directive 2011/92/EU. Power line routing and design incorporate bird-safe measures. For lines crossing or located near Natura 2000 sites, an appropriate assessment under Article 6(3) of Directive 92/43/EEC demonstrates no adverse effects on site integrity.