Applying competition law to cross-border interconnector cables in a changing, high-price electricity sector

The energy transition and the EU’s efforts to integrate national energy markets have changed the European electricity sector. Simultaneously, the insufficient interconnection between the electricity systems in the Member States encumbers progress with EU energy policy. Cross-border interconnectors facilitate electricity trade between the Member States and are a physical prerequisite to integrate large-scale renewable electricity production, as underlined in the EU’s response to the 2022 energy crisis. However, this crisis has led to an enduring rise in electricity prices in many Member States. This has sparked a debate that challenges established EU energy law paradigms, such as the formation of energy prices based on free competition and unrestricted cross-border trade over interconnectors.