To supplement the regulation on the gradual termination of the import of Russian natural gas to the EU, the European Commission (EC), together with Slovakia, was developed by an “ambitious and comprehensive” working planin which it acknowledged special challenges arising from national circumstances.
She set up his support Special working group, which will provide SR targeted aid, monitor progress and facilitate cooperation with other Member States if necessary,, if necessary, Transport system operators and alternative suppliers. This is stated by the chairman of the EC Ursula von der Leyen in a letter to the Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic Robert Fico (Smer-SD), who was published by the Prime Minister on Tuesday.
“I can assure you about the commitment of the Commission to cooperate with you to implement the agreed work plan and to solve specific challenges for Slovakia within our bilateral cooperation, at regional level and in the ongoing legislative process,” said the EC President. Short -term and medium -term outputs relating to infrastructure and transit gas transit capacities, regulatory issues, including gas transport charges, or specialized demand registration, are set in the working plan.
According to the letter, the Commission will clarify the trigger mechanisms and criteria of the so -called. emergency brake, recognizing the risk of extreme price jumps, along with risks of security of supply related to the market deficiency or narrow places in the infrastructure. It also undertakes to develop and introduce a solution to cross -border fees in the oil and natural gas sector for Slovakia or region, aimed at reducing costs and taking into account the special situation of the Slovak Republic.
The EC promised to help Slovakia and cooperate with it on measures aimed at increasing energy security and reducing end prices in the field of electricity and gas, Even through accelerated processing of state aid schemes. It is also ready to negotiate with Slovakia on legal matters and, if necessary, to intervene during possible lawsuits arising from the implementation of the Regulation on the gradual termination of the import of Russian gas.
“The Commission, together with Slovakia, will prepare possible solutions for the use of EU funds, especially in the event of the risks of liabilities, for energy -related purposes, compensation for negative impacts on households and industry, and supporting diversification efforts, in accordance with the rules in force,” the EC said.
It also acknowledges the application of Slovakia for a decision on the planned emergency brake at the request of one or more Member States, as well as explorerity clauses on 30 June 2027 or immediately after the conclusion of a fair and comprehensive peace agreement between the Russian Federation and Ukraine. The aim is to assess whether the measures taken are also justified, appropriate and in compliance with the strategic interests of the Union, including the impact on gas prices and thus on the competitiveness of the EU economy.
“The Commission intends to assess these issues on the basis of a proper reasoning, if Slovakia asks for this in the legislative process due to its specific calls related to the gradual termination of Russian gas supplies,” she added in the EC letter.
