New market rules bring EU-wide gas market closer
Thursday, 30 April, 2015
The European Commission has adopted new rules for cross-border cooperation between gas network operators, bringing the goal of an EU internal market for gas a step closer. The rules, adopted on 30 April 2015, are part of a series of technical laws known as ‘network codes‘ that regulate the use of gas networks.
These new rules, known as the 4th binding EU Network Code for the gas sector – were developed in cooperation with national energy regulators and network operators (ACER and ENTSOG). They align the complex technical procedures used by network operators within the EU, the Energy Community and other countries neighbouring the EU.
The rules cover ways in which network operators manage gas flows across borders, deal with differences in gas quality and exchange data between themselves and market players. By easing the flows of gas across the continent, this network code will contribute to security of supply and competitive prices for customers.
Work has already begun to put these new rules in place including steps towards opening previously closed gas trading routes in particular in Eastern Europe.
Every year the European Commission publishes a progress report on achieving a single internal market for gas and electricity. The 2014 report found an increase in cross-border trade in gas and a more efficient use of gas pipelines, thanks to common rules on the use of gas networks.