28.10.2022

ACER consults on TSOs’ proposal to include Norway in the capacity calculation regions

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ACER consults on TSOs’ proposal to include Norway in the capacity calculation regions

What is it about?

The EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) is running a public consultation on the Transmission System Operators’ (TSOs’) proposal to include Norway in the capacity calculation regions (CCRs).

What are the capacity calculation regions and why are they important?

CCRs define the geographic areas (i.e. by listing bidding zone borders) across the EU in which the task of capacity calculation and other processes are coordinated by TSOs (i.e. subject to regional methodologies).

There are 8 CCRs in Europe: Nordic, Hansa, Core, Italy North, Greece-Italy (GRIT), South-west Europe (SWE), Baltic and South-east Europe (SEE).

In 2021, the CACM Regulation has also become binding for Norway. The TSOs’ amendment proposes to add the Norwegian bidding zone borders into the Hansa and Nordic CCRs.

Forming CCRs benefit European consumers, as:

  • Dividing Europe into different CCRs allows TSOs to run regional processes related to capacity calculation, re-dispatch & countertrading more effectively;
  • Having an efficient determination of CCRs facilitates the optimal provision of cross-zonal capacity, which allows more cross-zonal trade while remaining security of supply; and
  • The addition of the Norwegian bidding zone borders further facilitates welfare increases by integrating these bidding zone borders in European and regional processes.

What is the process to amend the current bidding zones?

Any amendments proposed by TSOs to the definition of CCRs are subject to the approval of ACER.

ACER has six months (until 13 April 2023) to decide on the TSOs’ proposal.

Next steps

ACER will assess whether the TSOs’ proposals contribute to market integration, non-discrimination, effective competition and the proper functioning of the EU electricity market.

To collect views of the stakeholders, a public consultation on the TSOs proposed amendments runs from 28 October to 25 November 2022.

Access the Public Consultation.

Access the Public Notice.