Vision

Europe is facing threats to its energy security, ranging from political instability in the regions supplying oil and gas to exponential growth in the global competition for finite resources that are being rapidly depleted. At the same time, Europe has accepted onerous environmental responsibilities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and for developing green energy that will be difficult to fulfil.

All these challenges raise a single question: how is Europe to survive the energy, environmental and economic crisis that is already upon us?

In all truth there is probably no single answer. But three things are clear.

First, any future energy policy must begin with the imperative for greater energy efficiency and conservation. That is inescapable.

Second, the future vision must be based on primary energy sources that are indigenous, secure, sustainable, clean and competitive, while simultaneously conferring a competitive advantage on the European economy.

Finally, the vision must be consistent with the founding principles of the European Union– solidarity among the Member States and common action in the external arena of the global economy. Additionally, it should conform to the requirements of a functioning internal market as dictated by the Treaties.