This forum session will focus on two issues which are closely related in ESMIG’s view: securing critical infrastructures and supporting European industry leadership, while ensuring fair competition. Securing the operations of critical infrastructures requires addressing cybersecurity risks. Beyond high standards, certification and an agile adaptation to new risks (AI-driven, quantum, etc.) awareness is needed on what it means to operate critical infrastructures in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment, where the energy system is particularly vulnerable to hybrid threats. Recognizing that energy grids, including digital hardware and software are prime targets for cyberattacks, the session will emphasize the importance of harmonized implementation of European legislation to enhance security across the board.



Additionally, the session will further explore ways to strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy, which is particularly important for critical infrastructures. ESMIG advocates for supporting the clean tech industry and reaching the EU’s ambitious pathway to net-zero with a positive impact on European jobs and growth, fostering innovation ecosystems, and enhancing Europe’s leadership in smart energy solutions to build a resilient and competitive supply chain. In this context, the session will also explore concrete measures to secure a level-playing field within the Single Market, advocating for reciprocity of rules with third countries and to ensure European companies can compete fairly in their own markets. Discussions will also centre on preventing distorting foreign subsidies from public procurement processes, particularly in critical energy infrastructure, by strengthening non-price criteria in tender evaluations, cybersecurity and revising regulations to ensure more transparency