EP 3,6-12 is the third phase of energy production of the European power grid. This part of the grid distributes electricity within Europe. It covers three times the area of the previous phase, EP 1,6-12. Countries connected to this grid include Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Romania and Greece. This network ensures that electricity is brought in from the most efficient and cheapest sources, as well as helping to balance the demand and supply of electricity, which reduces fluctuations in the system. It also helps to ensure secure and reliable energy supply, as electricity can be re-routed if there is disruption on one part of the grid. This helps to avoid blackouts or outages in any European country. Other related benefits are increased energy efficiency and improved energy security of the region.