Europe must continue to reduce its dependence on external energy supplies, primarily from non-democratic states, while strengthening its own energy stability through the development of nuclear energy, deepening the integration of power grids, localizing the production of strategic technologies and creating mandatory reserves. Under these conditions, the increase in domestic oil and gas production in Western countries should also be viewed through the prism of security, stability and defense readiness.
Reinis Poznaks, a member of the European Parliament from Latvia, who is a member of the Security and Defense Committee, said this in an interview with Guildhall.
— What steps can Europe take to achieve energy independence?
— Europe today is much less dependent on energy resources passing through the Strait of Hormuz than Asia, as it has consistently reduced its dependence on energy supplies from the Middle East over the past decade. Fifteen years ago, this dependence was much higher than it is now, even though it was necessary to replace Russian supplies after the start of Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine.
This course must be continued. Europe should continue to reduce its external dependencies, especially on non-democratic countries. To strengthen energy independence, we should focus on three key areas.
First, continue the transition from oil to natural gas, and eventually to alternative fuels such as methanol and ethanol. This transition will take time, but if modern technologies are combined with the right incentives and subsidies, progress could be faster than many expect.
Secondly, it is necessary to strengthen the commitment to nuclear power. Nuclear power provides stable, predictable and low-carbon generation, which is critical for long-term sustainability.
Third, when negotiating energy agreements with foreign partners, priority should be given to democratic, energy-rich countries, such as Norway, Canada, and the United States, over undemocratic suppliers.
— What changes in energy policy should the EU and its member states make in the coming years?
— It is necessary to take a wide range of measures, but several priorities are particularly clearly identified.
First of all, we should fully use the Industrial Accelerator Act, which introduces requirements for the share of products originating from the EU for key green technologies. Its goal is to produce solar panels, wind turbines, batteries and other strategic technologies within the European Union, reducing dependence on external supply chains, primarily on China.
In addition, it is necessary to accelerate the development of small modular reactors. Such reactors are able to provide stable basic generation that does not depend on weather conditions or volatile global markets, thereby enhancing energy security.
Another key priority is the deeper integration of energy networks within the European Union. One of Europe’s main vulnerabilities lies not so much in the lack of energy production as in its inability to efficiently deliver it to where it is needed. This requires more cross-border connections, as well as continued electrification and decarbonization of heating and cooling systems.
Finally, mechanisms for joint procurement and mandatory reserve accumulation should be strengthened. Collective gas purchases can prevent member states from competing with each other during crises. In addition, Europe should create strategic reserves not only of energy resources, but also of critical equipment — transformers, grid components and other infrastructure necessary to maintain power systems in emergency situations.
— 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?
— This idea deserves support. Energy policy should be viewed through the prism of sustainability and security. The growth in domestic oil and gas production reduces external dependencies and limits strategic vulnerabilities.
A higher level of domestic production also strengthens industrial capacity, technological competence and supply chain security. All these factors are directly related to defense readiness, as modern defense capabilities depend on a reliable and secure energy supply.
By increasing energy production within their own countries, Western states are not only increasing economic stability, but also strengthening their ability to support military operations and respond to crises.
Exclusively for Guildhall.
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