New report outlines good practices to reduce energy sector risks during a pandemic

The European Commission has today published a report identifying good practices to address energy sector risks associated with a pandemic. Although the energy system has proven to be resilient during the Covid-19 crisis due to the good preparedness of the sector, it is important to remain vigilant.

Following the videoconference of EU Energy Ministers on preparedness and recovery in the energy sector 28 April 2020, the Commission has compiled the experience shared by experts from the Member States, energy companies and network operators in one single report.

The report outlines a number of short-term risks such as ensuring energy supply to vulnerable customers and availability of specialised energy workers, and longer-term challenges like the reliability of critical supply chains, and the impact of delays of postponing maintenance. The report also outlines a range of 20 good practices to deal with these risks such as the importance of establishing business continuity and contingency plans, and cross border assistance, cooperation and training for operators.

The report is available online and will be updated if other new threats or pandemics emerge.

Related links

• Energy security: Good practices to address pandemic risks SWD (2020) 104 final
• Energy supply and pandemics