Article 13 (9) of the Electricity Regulation: The basic implementation phase for reconfigured bidding zones should be 24 instead of 12 months

Brussels, 8 November 2018 | Ensuring bidding zones are configured efficiently is necessary in order to address long-term structural congestion. However, any change to the configuration of bidding zones has a fundamental impact on the functioning of wholesale electricity markets. While the change itself, once implemented, may bring about overall benefits the transition process itself comes at a cost which is ultimately passed on to the electricity consumers. In order to minimise this cost and to leave the market enough time to adapt, the implementation phase needs to be appropriate and must guarantee a smooth transition. Recent experience has shown that at least 24 months are needed for such a transition.