A new alliance has been formed to support a fundamental transformation of the European electricity system, addressing a critical gap in public dialogue: linking the real needs of industrial consumers and technology providers with the planning and development of networks.
Founding Members
The founding members of GIGA include Amazon, Electra, Fastned, Google, Hitachi Energy, Linde, Meta, Metlen, Milence, Microsoft, and Siemens Energy, representing a broad spectrum of major electricity consumers and companies developing innovative network solutions. The common denominator among them is a commitment to creating a modern, resilient, and “green” energy system capable of supporting the competitiveness of the European economy.
Rising Demand, Inadequate Networks
Across Europe, electricity demand is rising rapidly as industries accelerate the electrification of their operations, digital services expand, and consumers adopt clean technologies. However, electricity networks have not evolved at the same pace. Aging infrastructure, lengthy permitting procedures, and multi-year connection queues now limit access to clean and affordable electricity for both businesses and citizens. According to estimates from the European Commission, investment needs for electricity network infrastructure are expected to reach approximately €1.2 trillion by 2040.
GIGA’s Key Areas of Intervention
GIGA aims to contribute to the comprehensive transformation of European networks, focusing on four key policy and technology areas:
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Future-Oriented Network Planning – Closer collaboration with consumers to ensure investments are directed where real needs exist.
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Unlocking Capital for Network Expansion – Mobilising third-party financing and timely investments to reduce delays and supply chain pressures.
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Maximising Existing Infrastructure – Leveraging technological solutions such as Grid Enhancing Technologies (GETs), flexible connection agreements, and targeted congestion relief incentives.
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Accelerating Network Access – Transitioning from a “first-come-first-served” model to a “first-ready-first-out” system, allocating capacity based on project maturity.
Shaping the European Energy Dialogue
As Europe pursues climate neutrality by 2050 while ensuring energy security, competitive costs, and industrial strength, electricity networks must undergo rapid transformation. In this context, GIGA aims to provide technical expertise and practical solutions, leveraging the international experience of its members in regulatory frameworks and network planning processes.
As Matt Ersin, Chair of GIGA, stated: “Europe’s energy transition can only succeed if networks evolve at the same speed and scale as the needs of industry and the digital economy.”
Pamela MacDougall, Vice-Chair of GIGA, added: “Modern networks are the foundation of a clean and competitive European economy,” highlighting the Alliance’s role in shaping evidence-based policy decisions at both European and national levels.
