News

On 16 May the participants of the conference „A fresh look at the world map: Lithuania‘s energy security“ addressed energy security issues, adopted conclusions and recommendations.

The conclusions of the conference state that taking into account current situation in the world energy market, it is necessary not only to formulate new energy policy objectives, but also to renew the National Energy Strategy adopted in 2002.

According to the participants of the conference, the National Energy Strategy pays too little attention to fundamental issues of decentralization and demonopolization of national energy system and the use of renewable energy sources. Moreover, energy policy is not effectively coordinated with foreign policy.

The participants of the conference are of opinion that Lithuania’s energy economy should be reassessed in the world context.

“Connecting the future of Lithuania’s energy sector with Russian energy sources is not only improvident, but also destructive in terms of national security,” the conclusions state.

The participants of the conference assume that the National Energy Strategy implementation action plans that promote energy saving, the use of renewable energy sources, and diversification of energy economy should be prepared.

Diplomats and experts also recommend linking effectively national energy policy with foreign and security policy.

“The most important Lithuanian energy decisions will continue to depend greatly on efforts and success of Lithuanian diplomacy,” said in the conclusions.

“The state needs an effective mechanism for coordination between national security, including energy security and foreign policy, providing a clearer allocation of functions and responsibilities among the state institutions,” the conclusions add.

The participants of the conference „A fresh look at the world map: Lithuania‘s energy security“ heard the opinions of Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Antanas Valionis, Head of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Energy and Transport  Energy Policy and Security Supply division Jean-Arnold Vinois, U.S. analyst Edward C.Chow, Swedish Ministry of Sustainable Development Energy Department Expert on the Baltic Sea States energy issues Per Hogstrom, Ambassador Česlovas Stankevičius, Lithuanian Ministry of Economy Undersecretary Anicetas Ignotas.