; (B) to enhance energy market integration across the region; and (C) to increase competition within energy markets. (b) Project selection (1) In general The agencies described in subsection (a) shall identify energy infrastructure projects that would be appropriate for United States assistance under this section. (2) Project eligibility A project is eligible for United States assistance under this section if the project is— (A) related to— (i) natural gas infrastructure, such as interconnectors, storage facilities, liquefied natural gas import facilities, or reverse flow capacity; (ii) electricity transmission infrastructure, electricity storage projects, or smart grid projects; (iii) renewable energy projects in wind, solar, tidal, or other forms; or (iv) the improvement, rehabilitation, or construction of natural gas, coal, or other electricity generation facilities to increase the efficiency and reliability of electricity production; and (B) located in a Central or Eastern European country. (3) Preference In selecting among projects that are eligible under paragraph (2), the agencies described in subsection (a) shall give preference to projects that— (A) link the energy systems of 2 or more Central and Eastern European countries; (B) have already been identified by the European Commission as being integral for the energy security of Central and Eastern European countries; (C) are expected to enhance energy market integration; (D) can attract funding from the private sector, an international financial institution, the government of the country in which the project will be carried out, or the European Commission