Ljubljana - A ministerial of the Initiative on Central and South-Eastern European Energy Connectivity (CESEC) on Tuesday agreed that energy connectivity is key for successful and cost-effective energy transition. The current situation and future of energy systems in the region was also debated with European Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson.

The first part of the session in Ljubljana discussed priority electricity infrastructure projects, coupling of markets and inclusion of renewable energy sources in the energy system, with an emphasis on the network at sea.

The Slovenian Infrastructure Ministry added in the press release that Minister Jernej Vrtovec had said that CESEC was an excellent opportunity for easier energy cooperation in South-East Europe between EU member states and third countries.

"Energy cooperation will unavoidably bring us to energy transition, which is not important only for fighting climate change, but also for ensuring long-term competitiveness of our economies," he said.

According to Vrtovec, the fundamental condition for this transition are closely connected and well-functioning energy markets, and the participation in CESEC and work done as part of this initiative provide an added value.

The ministers agreed that electricity connectivity is key to successful and cost-effective energy transition, as a project of smart networks between Slovenia and Croatia and possibilities of wind energy at sea were presented.

They also discussed priority cross-border gas supply projects and related legislative activities, as well as infrastructure for renewable and other low-carbon gases.

The ministers agreed that the promotion of environmentally friendly gases is exceptionally important also from the aspect of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in industries where electrification is not possible, the ministry said.