Ukraine can win energy wars against Russia if it expands its own sources of energy. The US gas supplies via Poland, which were agreed upon at the end of August, may undermine the Kremlin's position. The membership in the European Energy Union and "green" energy sources, however, are also important - Germany can invest in them. This was told to Apostrophe by former Danish Prime Minister and former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, who took part in the panel discussion in the framework of the 16th Yalta European Strategy.
- How can Ukraine win the battle for energy independence?
- First of all, thanks to greater energy efficiency. Frankly speaking, I think this is the most effective way to make Ukraine less dependent on imported energy, to save energy, to reduce energy consumption through better house heating, more efficient appliances and so on.
The second way is to develop alternative (renewable) energy sources. This will help to reduce dependence on imported gas. This is a very important tool.
And, of course, Ukraine should diversify its energy resources, not relying on a single one.
Personally, I am categorically against Nord Stream 2, as it is not a commercial project. It is a political project that Russia uses to support Europe's dependence on Russian gas import. It will also have an indirect impact on Ukraine.
- The US and Poland are going to create a joint project to provide Ukraine with American gas. Will this help to battle the Kremlin's influence?
- Yes, this is a good idea. I have already mentioned the diversification of your energy resources. Import of liquefied gas can replace import of Russian gas.
- Can Ukraine get energy independence from the Kremlin without getting political independence?
- No, it cannot. Energy and politics are linked. I think that the agreement on the extension of transit will be considered, so Ukraine will need Russian gas. But the positive news is that Ukraine has significantly reduced its dependence on Russian gas imports in recent years. Therefore, development should continue. I believe that the import of American liquefied gas will be one of the means in this fight.
Also, membership in the European Energy Union is very important for Ukraine. Because if Russia exports gas, for example, to Germany, Germany can export gas to Ukraine and other countries. And this will reduce the risk of Russia misusing its energy as an instrument of its security policy.
- Can Europe invest more in the development of green energy in Ukraine?
- I hope so. It is possible to invest in solar energy, wind energy. The last one in Denmark is more than 50% of electric power production. This is a very important component of the country's energy sector.
- Which country can become the most promising partner in this matter?
- I have already mentioned Denmark, but it is a small country. I think Germany.
