EU–Russian Energy Relations after the 2004/2007 EU Enlargement: An EU Perspective

Abstract

While voices for a more unified EU approach towards Russia to guarantee the Union's energy security grow stronger, the internal dichotomy between the energy interests of the old and the new (Central and Eastern European) member states hampers the possibility of joint action. Although an analytical thick distinction between old and new EU members often represents extensive simplification, in terms of energy policy, it is made possible by the discrepancies in their respective energy sectors, particularly over three categories. First, their energy mixes are diverse. Second, the degree to which national grids are interconnected differs greatly. Third, these two camps hold opposing perceptions of Russia as a reliable energy partner. With these differences in mind, this article proposes four possible scenarios that could develop within the European Union in terms of energy policy; the establishment of a common European Energy Policy with an external dimension; the lack of such a policy, effectively maintaining the current status quo situation; the EU expanding its energy community; and the EU becoming a nuclear energy powerhouse. Each of these potential developments is assessed for its implications on EU–Russian energy relations.