(d) promote the exchange of information, prevention and coordinated action in case of an emergency within the Union and with third countries.

Article 3

Consultation

The Commission may consult the Group on any matter relating to electricity and, in particular, security of electricity supply.

Article 4

Composition of the Group

1. The Group shall be composed of the following members:

(a) Member States' authorities, in particular Ministries competent for energy;

(b) the National Regulatory Authorities for energy;

(d) the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (‘The ENTSO for Electricity’) established by Regulation (EC) No 714/2009(8).

2. Each of the members shall nominate not more than two permanent representatives and two alternates to participate in the work of the Group. One of the permanent representatives of the Member State shall be the Head of the Government Department for energy. One of the permanent representatives of the national regulatory authorities shall be its Director-General or President. One of the permanent representatives nominated by the Agency shall be the Director. One of the permanent representatives nominated by ENTSO-E shall be the Secretary-General. Alternates shall be appointed in accordance with the same conditions as members; alternates automatically replace any members who are absent or indisposed.

3. During an emergency situation at Union, Member State or regional level, or in other exceptional situations, the members of the Group may request the Commission to appoint more than two representatives to participate in the work of the Group.

4. The names of members as well as the names of members' permanent representatives and of the alternates of the members of the Group, and of the observers shall be published in the Register of Commission expert groups and other similar entities (‘the Register’)(9).

5. Each Member of the Electricity Coordination Group shall register via internet (‘CIRCABC’ website(10)) and ensure that its membership status is up-to-date.

6. Personal data shall be collected, processed and published in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 45/2001.

Article 5

Operation

1. The Group shall be chaired by a representative of the Commission (‘the Chairman’).

2. The Chairman shall convene the Group on a regular basis and shall share with the Group information received from its members whilst preserving the confidentiality of commercially sensitive information.

3. In agreement with the Commission services, the Group may set up sub-groups to examine specific questions on the basis of terms of reference defined by the Group. Such sub-groups shall be dissolved as soon as their mandates are fulfilled.