Overview
WHAT IS IT
The priority project selection process is a biennial mechanism defined by the adapted TEN-E Regulation (EU) 2022/869, through which the Energy Community identifies Projects of Energy Community Interest (PECIs)—infrastructure projects that meet specific criteria for regional energy security, market integration, and sustainability. Projects are proposed, evaluated by two technical subgroups (electricity and gases), the process results in a prioritised list adopted by the Energy Community Ministerial Council, which formally adopted the adapted regulation in 2023.
WHY IT MATTERS
The PECI label signifies a project's strategic importance to the Energy Community and enhances its eligibility for EU financial support through instruments such as IPA III, NDICI – Global Europe, WBIF, EFSD+, and others. In addition to improved investment attractiveness, PECI projects benefit from streamlined permitting, possible cross-border cost allocation, and priority treatment—ensuring faster and more effective development of energy infrastructure aligned with the region’s energy and climate goals.
EXPERT GROUP: PECI COORDINATION GROUPS
The PECI Groups, established under the adapted framework of the revised TEN-E Regulation (EU) 2022/869, serve as decision-making bodies responsible for the selection of Projects of Energy Community Interest (PECIs). The regulation foresees the creation of two subgroups—one for electricity and one for gases—comprising representatives from Contracting Party ministries, national regulatory authorities, TSOs, ENTSO-E or ENTSOG, the European Commission, the Energy Community Secretariat, the Energy Community Regulatory Board, and ECDSO-E. Meeting biennially, these subgroups assess project proposals, agree on evaluation methodologies and criteria, and propose a preliminary PECI list for adoption by the Ministerial Council.
Initially established in 2015 under the previous Regulation (EU) 347/2013, these Groups have consistently played a central role in identifying key infrastructure projects, reflecting both the continuity and evolution of regional energy policy.
