European Commission calls for independence from Russian energy
European Commissioner Dan Jørgensen (photo: Getty Images)
The war in Ukraine has shown that European countries should be completely independent of Russia in the energy sector. Because energy policy is a security policy, stated European Commissioner Dan Jørgensen, responsible for energy and housing, LRT reports.
During a press conference in Brussels on the protection of critical energy infrastructure, Jørgensen said that today's synchronization of the Baltic states with Europe creates conditions for lowering electricity prices in Europe. This refers to the disconnection of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia from the Russian energy system and the connection of these countries to the EU energy grid.
"The synchronization was successfully implemented 10 months - almost a year earlier - than planned. This was achieved thanks to hard work and dedication," he said.
At the same time, the European Commissioner emphasized that Europe should be 100% independent of Russian energy resources.
"There is no doubt that energy policy is also a security policy. Unfortunately, today we are in a terrible situation in Europe, where Russia has brutally attacked Ukraine. This affects all of us. First of all, it shows that we have to be independent. We have to be 100% independent of energy resources from Russia and its energy systems," Jørgensen explained.
The European official also added that today, February 9, is important not only for the Baltic States but also for the whole of Europe. He emphasized that synchronization will bring many opportunities.
"1.2 billion euros is a lot of money. But it is earmarked for an important purpose for all of us. Synchronization will help the entire region achieve greater integration of energy systems. This will facilitate decarbonization and allow us to become more competitive. We must strive to reduce electricity prices because it will help not only our industry but also our households," said the European Commissioner.
LRT added that in total, more than €1.6 billion has been invested in the synchronization project in the Baltic States and Poland, with about €1.2 billion coming from European Union funds.
In December 2024, Dan Jørgensen said in an interview with Politico that he considers it his top priority to develop a plan that will finally break all energy ties between the European Union and Russia.
