Making the EU electricity grid fit for net-zero emissions

We often take electricity for granted, expecting it at the flick of a switch. Yet behind the scenes, 11.3 million Km of electricity lines and cables bring electricity to 266 million customers. Combating climate change and enhancing the EU's energy independence requires a modernised electricity grid, capable of integrating more renewable energy and adapting to rising electrification. This review examines the state of the EU's electricity grids, key trends, and policies and outlines the challenges and opportunities of having a grid fit for net zero. We highlight the need to accelerate the large-scale investments for the energy transition, ways to reduce investment needs through electricity system and grid flexibility, and the important role of regulatory frameworks in securing funding.