EU pushes 'silence is consent' rule for energy grid permits in Europe

The European Commission is proposing a 'tacit approval' mechanism for energy grid modernisation permits, where silence from authorities would automatically count as approval. While some EU member states back the proposal, others have asked Cyprus, holding the EU presidency, not to make the provision mandatory.

The European Commission has put forward a controversial proposal to introduce a tacit approval mechanism for permitting projects aimed at modernising Europe's ageing electricity grid. Under the plan, silence from permitting authorities within a set timeframe would automatically be treated as a green light for energy infrastructure projects.

Divide Among Member States

The proposal has split EU member states. A number of countries have expressed support for the Commission's approach, arguing that streamlining permits is essential to accelerate the overhaul of energy infrastructure across the bloc. The EU's electricity grid, large parts of which were built decades ago, is seen as a major bottleneck in the green transition.

However, a separate group of member states has pushed back, urging Cyprus — which currently holds the rotating EU Council presidency — not to make the tacit approval clause a binding requirement. Critics argue that automatic approvals could bypass important environmental and administrative safeguards.

Grid Modernisation Under Pressure

The debate comes as the EU faces mounting pressure to speed up grid investment in order to meet its climate and energy security targets. Permitting delays have long been identified as one of the key obstacles to deploying renewable energy and upgrading transmission capacity across member states.

The outcome of the negotiations will depend on whether Cyprus can broker a compromise that satisfies both those pushing for faster approvals and those insisting on preserving national oversight over sensitive infrastructure decisions.