The European Commission is allocating nearly EUR 650m to help finance 14 cross-border energy infrastructure projects intended to strengthen the EU’s energy security and increase the integration of renewable energy. “A strong and independent Energy Union which delivers clean and cheap energy to consumers must be built on integrated and safe energy infrastructure,” said energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen: “The projects we are supporting financially will enhance Europe’s competitiveness and energy security, bringing us on a steady pathway towards independence.”Selected projectsOverall, the funding is allocated for 6 electricity infrastructure projects including smart electricity grids and for 8 hydrogen infrastructure projects. Nearly €470 million of the funding is earmarked for the 6 electricity projects including smart electricity grids. This is the first time that the CEF finances resilience and protection measures of critical energy infrastructure on such scale, enhancing the capacity of the EU energy system to respond to new challenges. The next CEF call for proposals for energy infrastructure is planned for the second quarter of 2026.