ACER: EU Grid Investment Triples to €30.5bn as Congestion Costs Rise
Europe – November 06, 2026 -- Annual investment in European electricity transmission nearly tripled from €10.4 billion in 2019 to €30.5 billion in 2025. Permitting delays and congestion costs are still pushing up consumer bills, according to ACER's 2026 Monitoring Report on energy infrastructure development.
The report tests whether electricity, gas and hydrogen networks are keeping pace with changing demand. Renewable generation is expanding, and electricity demand is growing from heat pumps, electric vehicles and data centres. Gas networks must adapt to lower demand, while hydrogen remains at an early stage.
Cross-border project delays cost about €4 billion per year of slippage
On average, 22% of electricity transmission projects of common interest (PCIs) and mutual interest (PMIs) are delayed each year, mainly because of lengthy permitting procedures. A one-year delay costs around €4 billion in lost economic welfare.