Emerging EU energy security issues

Abstract

Ensuring energy supply security is a key objective of EU energy policy. While the EU member states have participated in cooperative crisis management institutions, such as the International Energy Agency, since the 1970s, the Commission believes that "the energy challenges of the 21 st century require a common EU response. The EU is an essential element in delivering sustainable, competitive and secure energy for European citizens. A common approach, articulated with a common voice, will enable Europe to lead the search for energy solutions." (Green Paper, "A European Strategy for Sustainable, Competitive and Secure Energy") The objectives of EU policy with regard to energy security are to ensure sufficient Community coordination during crises, to reduce the costs associated with such security measures, and to develop an effective EU-wide fuel stock management system. The EU has also been seeking to enhance its energy security through various policy actions aimed at diversifying both Europe's internal fuel mix and its external sources of energy supply. The Commission considers all major fuel types (fossil, nuclear, renewable) and energy efficiency important elements of long-term energy security and is encouraging Member States to maintain a broad portfolio of energy supply options and to ensure that there is a broad internal energy resource base.