On 19 November 2025, DSO Entity responded to the European Commission’s Public Consultation on the Electrification Action Plan, expected in Q1 2026. The Plan will be central to achieving EU decarbonisation objectives and the EC’s target of 32–33% electricity in final energy consumption by 2030. DSO Entity’s contribution highlights the essential role of electricity distribution grids and the need for forward-looking investment frameworks to secure a cost-efficient, reliable, and consumer-centred transition.
The responses focus on technical topics within DSO Entity’s mandate.
Need to create a supportive framework for grid operators to overcome electrification barriers
DSO Entity identifies the absence of anticipatory investment approaches in national regulatory frameworks as a major barrier to accelerated electrification, resulting in insufficient grid capacity and delays in connecting new loads. These issues limit DSOs’ ability to strengthen and digitalise grids ahead of rising electricity demand.
To accelerate electrification, DSO Entity emphasises that it cannot progress without:
- Anticipatory investment frameworks ensuring timely grid expansion, digitalisation and interoperability.
- Adequate compensation mechanisms and revenue stability to support long-term planning.
- Streamlined and harmonised permitting procedures for grid reinforcements and new connections.
These elements are essential to avoid delays and to keep electrification aligned with affordability objectives.
Unlocking flexibility for a cost-efficient energy transition
Demand response is an important aspect for a cost-efficient, decarbonised energy system. DSO Entity highlights barriers such as administrative and regulatory constraints, high investment and operational costs, lack of remuneration, insufficient digitalisation and fragmented markets. DSO Entity therefore stresses the need for:
- Effective implementation of the Network Code Demand Response (DR), the Implementing Regulation for DR and the flexibility needs assessment methodology.
- Ensuring equal roles for DSOs and TSOs in the development of necessary framework for DR and enhanced coordination between local and national markets to boost transparency, scalability and liquidity
- Cost-reflective and non-discriminatory network charges for all technologies, promotion of flexibility and incentivised consumer behaviours through network tariffs, and incentives for system operators to mobilise flexibility services.
DSO Entity’s response to the consultation is available here.
For more information, please contact Elisa van Dooren, Elisa.vanDooren@eudsoentity.eu