GEOPOLITICAL FACTOR IN THE TRANSFORMATION OF EU ENERGY POLICY (2022–2023)

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to analyse the influence of geopolitical fac- tors on the transformation of EU energy policy in 2022–2023. The research methodology is based on institutional analysis. The working hypothesis that the modern energy policy of the EU is primarily determined by geopolitics is confirmed. The paper examines the range of decisions of the EU institu- tions and national governments of the EU states in response to the impact of geopolitics on the energy sphere. It is revealed how energy-exporting states (first of all – Russia) resort to various forms of pressure to obtain certain political decisions from energy-dependent states. It is determined that under the conditions of the current geopolitical challenges, the main objectives of the EU energy policy are: diversification of energy sources and sources of supply of imported energy; formation of a fully integrated internal energy market with proper infrastructure and without barriers (technical, regula- tory, etc.); improvement of energy efficiency; reduction of dependence on the import of energy resources, etc. The paper argues that reforms in the EU are aimed at mitigating the geopolitical influence on the energy sec- tor, reducing the risks of a sharp increase in energy prices, accelerating the energy transition, and achieving energy independence. The challenges to the energy security of the EU are as follows: 1) the EU’s still strong de- pendence on the import of energy resources; 2) significant differences in the energy strategies of the EU states, their lack of solidarity in matters of reforming the energy sector; 3) probability of new supply risks from third countries with which trade in energy resources is established, as well as from countries that extract and enrich metals necessary for the introduction of clean technologies. The need for strong political will of the EU institu- tions and national governments of the EU states to consistently implement the planned reforms is emphasized, since energy problems pose a signifi- cant threat to security at all levels.