The European Commission has decided to broaden the National Safeguard Clause to cover energy security spending. The initiative, introduced as part of the 2026 European Semester Spring Package, seeks to promote investments necessary to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and hasten the energy transition. Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti was pleased with the improvement. Italy, along with other member states, had requested greater flexibility from the European Union to address the consequences of the energy crisis that continues to affect the continent. The Commission has set aside 0.3% of GDP within the current maximum limit of 1.5% for additional spending, with a total flexibility of up to 0.6% by 2028. The funds must be utilized solely for energy transition initiatives and not to fund reductions or incentives on home and business bills. In the next months, Brussels will specify the relevant measures in detail, while interested Member States will need to file a formal request to take advantage of the increased flexibility.