Europe Accelerates Grid Reform as Subsea Power Demand Rises

EU fast track grid reforms sharpen focus on cross border links and reinforce momentum in Europe’s energy transition

11 Dec 2025

Europe is preparing for a significant shift in its power system as the European Commission moves to shorten permitting timelines for major electricity grid projects. A draft plan published in December 2025 proposes reducing approval periods to two years, replacing processes that can stretch for a decade. National authorities that miss the deadline could trigger automatic approval. Officials say the measures are intended to modernise ageing networks, support renewable integration and address competitive pressure from the US and China.

The draft also calls for more coordinated planning of cross-border networks. The Commission argues that such alignment could help clear persistent bottlenecks and improve the movement of power between regions. Analysts note that better coordination would be critical as Europe expands offshore wind capacity and seeks greater grid resilience.

Several large subsea projects show the scale of planned investment. NeuConnect, the high-voltage link between the UK and Germany, is under construction and will run more than 700km. The Celtic Interconnector between Ireland and France will add another route for cross-border flows. Although these projects were launched before the draft reforms, they show the type of infrastructure the new system is designed to accelerate.

Companies across the cable and grid equipment sector, including Nexans and Prysmian, are monitoring the policy process as demand for both subsea and onshore links rises. Industry groups have called for tighter oversight and security measures for subsea assets, reflecting broader attention on infrastructure resilience.

Some environmental groups warn that faster approvals should not weaken existing safeguards. The Commission has said environmental standards will continue to apply under the revised approach.

If enacted, the reforms could influence Europe’s next generation of grid projects by speeding delayed investments and reinforcing cross-border capacity. How the policy shapes investment decisions and which companies benefit most will become clearer in the coming years.