Having full regard to the relevant provisions of the Treaty,in particular Article 86 thereof, Member States may impose onundertakings operating in the gas sector, in the general economicinterest, public service obligations which may relate to security,including security of supply, regularity, quality and price of supplies, and environmental protection, including energy efficiency,energy from renewable sources and climate protection. Such obligations shall be clearly defined, transparent, non-discriminatory,verifiable and shall guarantee equality of access for natural gasundertakings of the Community to national consumers. In relation to security of supply, energy efficiency/demand-side management and for the fulfilment of environmental goals and goals forenergy from renewable sources, as referred to in this paragraph,Member States may introduce the implementation of long-termplanning, taking into account the possibility of third parties seeking access to the system.
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