Tsafo: Boosting Existing European Power Links to Lower Electricity Prices

In addressing the issue of high electricity prices in Greece and Southeastern Europe, Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy Nikos Tsafo emphasizes cross-border and European solutions. Speaking at the 10th Energy Transition Symposium on June 4, 2025, Tsafo highlighted that while the government is implementing changes in the domestic market to assist consumers, the issue extends beyond national borders. Therefore, the Ministry focuses its efforts on persuading Brussels about the necessity for reforms concerning interconnections and broader energy planning. The Greek plan spans three axes and timelines. In the short term, it proposes operating international interconnections closer to their technical limits, particularly those between Southeastern and Central Europe—a strategy previously tested successfully between France and Germany during the 2022 energy crisis. This approach would only activate when prices spike, clarified Tsafo. In the medium term, incentives are needed so European countries critical for Balkan integration into the broader market can invest in new interconnections without bearing the full cost alone. Long-term, the focus shifts to a more comprehensive EU-wide energy planning process rather than state-by-state strategies. Tsafo also stressed the billions lost annually due to insufficient interconnections, emphasizing the economic benefits of additional projects.