Commission takes first major step towards internal market for electricity
February 1999 marks the deadline for Member States to comply with the European Commission Directive, 96/92/EC, on the internal market for electricity. With the exception of Belgium, Ireland and Greece, they must now open at least 26.48% of their natural markets to free competition. The Member States have had two years, since the Directive entered into force, to adapt their national policies to meet the Directive's requirements. Intended to reduce electricity prices throughout Europe, the Directive is being hailed by the European Commission as the first major step towards creating an open and competitive electricity market in Europe. The Directive establishes common rules for the generation, transmission and distribution of energy. It was adopted by the Council of Ministers on 19 December 1996 and entered into force on 19 February 1997. While most Member States must now comply with the Directive, Belgium and Ireland have an additional year and Greece an additional two, to transpose the Directive in their national legislation. A guide to the electricity Directive, including access to the harmonisation report and frequently asked questions, is currently available at the European Commission, Directorate General XVII's website at: URL: http://europa.eu.int/en/comm/dg17/elechome.htm(opens in new window)