To achieve energy independence, Europe needs to rely on its own resources, reduce dependence on external suppliers, maintain reliable basic generation and accelerate infrastructure development. The EU should shift priorities from regulatory restrictions to energy security, the affordability of energy and the protection of industrial potential.
Daniel Obajtek, a member of the European Parliament from Poland, a member of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy, said this in an interview with Guildhall.
— What steps can Europe take to achieve energy independence?
— First of all, Europe must reduce its strategic vulnerabilities in the energy sector. For too long, some European countries have been heavily dependent on external suppliers, especially authoritarian regimes. The experience of recent years has clearly shown that energy security is part of national security.
Europe should diversify both its energy balance and its range of suppliers. This means strengthening domestic energy production, maintaining reliable basic generation, primarily nuclear power, as well as investing in infrastructure — LNG terminals and interconnections that allow energy to move across borders.
At the same time, Europe must support innovation and technological development, including renewable energy, but do so in a way that does not undermine economic stability and competitiveness. It is equally important to reduce the excessive regulatory burden, which slows down investments in energy. Europe needs faster approval procedures and policies that encourage private investment in strategic energy infrastructure.
— What changes in energy policy should the EU and its member states make in the coming years?
— The European Union should adjust its energy policy. Today, many European industries face high energy prices, which weakens competitiveness and creates the risk of transferring production outside Europe.
First, it is necessary to review mechanisms such as the emissions trading system, as well as other solutions that significantly increase the cost of energy for citizens and industry. Secondly, the EU should take a technologically neutral approach, allowing member states to independently determine their own energy balance, taking into account national conditions.
Member States should give priority to investing in stable and reliable energy sources, primarily in nuclear power, domestic resources where they are available, and modernized power grids. The EU itself should focus more on energy security, energy availability and sustainability, rather than imposing one-size-fits-all solutions.
— How do you assess the idea of increasing domestic oil and gas production in Western countries, especially in terms of its potential impact on defense capabilities?
— While the long-term energy transition continues, Western countries must responsibly develop their own energy resources. This helps to stabilize energy markets, strengthen industrial capabilities and strengthen the broader security architecture of the Euro-Atlantic community.
The growth of domestic oil and gas production should also be viewed through the prism of sustainability and defense readiness. The lower the dependence on external suppliers, the greater the ability of states to maintain stability, maintain an industrial base and ensure the reliable operation of systems critical to security.
Exclusively for Guildhall.
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