Europe warns against over-reliance on US gas
European Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen expressed growing concern about Europe's increasing reliance on the United States for its liquefied natural gas (LNG) needs, warning against repeating past strategic mistakes in energy security. These remarks come at a time of heightened tensions in transatlantic relations, particularly following recent diplomatic strains that have cast a shadow over the historic alliance between the two sides.
Speaking to reporters in Brussels, Jorgensen noted that recent geopolitical turmoil, including what he termed the "Greenland crisis," has served as a wake-up call for the European continent. The European official emphasized that while the EU is successfully reducing its Russian energy imports significantly, legitimate concerns are growing about falling into the trap of "dependence on another power," even a strategic ally like the United States.
Context of the transformation of the European energy map
To understand the depth of these concerns, one must consider the historical context following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2002. European countries were forced to make drastic and rapid changes to their energy infrastructure to reduce their reliance on Russian gas, which had been the lifeblood of European industry and heating. In the midst of this crisis, the United States emerged as a key alternative and immediate savior, pumping massive quantities of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to European ports, helping the continent weather a harsh winter and avoid widespread power outages.
The risks of unilateral dependence and its economic impact
Although American gas has helped bridge the gap, economists and policymakers in Brussels believe that complete reliance on a single source carries significant risks. These concerns include the volatility of global prices, which directly impacts the competitiveness of European heavy industries, as well as the potential for energy supplies to be affected by internal political changes in Washington or any shifts in US trade policy that might prioritize the domestic market.
Towards strategic independence and diversification of resources
Jorgensen's remarks underscore the EU's new strategic direction, which aims to achieve "strategic independence" in the energy sector. This direction is not limited to finding new gas suppliers, but focuses primarily on accelerating the transition to renewable and clean energy. The European Commission believes that the optimal solution for ensuring sustainable energy security lies not in replacing one energy source with another, but in reducing overall dependence on imported fossil fuels and boosting investment in wind, solar, and green hydrogen energy to guarantee a future not subject to the vagaries of international politics.
