Internal market for electricity and gas

One of Europe's most important objectives is to ensure a genuine single market for energy for the benefit of consumers and businesses.

For this reason, the European Commission has put forth a raft of proposals to liberalise the electricity and gas markets. The package, known as the third liberalisation package, seeks to enhance competition in the EU internal market in order to create real choice for consumers and increase business opportunities as cross-border trade increases. At the same time, efficiency gains, competitive prices, higher standards of service and increased supply and sustainability can be achieved.

The liberalisation package was agreed upon by the Council of Ministers at a meeting of energy ministers on 10th October 2008. The package was adopted by the European Parliament in April 2009 as well as by the Council of Ministers in June 2009.