Giving Shape to the Energy Union: Evolution, National Expectations and Implications for EU Energy and Climate Governance

Abstract

The “Energy Union” can be seen as the most significant policy idea that seeks to reform European energy governance, policy and regional cooperation. However, so far the concept is mostly an empty box in which every stakeholder tries to put whatever is on the top of their priority list. This paper tries to structure the discussion by first showing the roots and evolution of the “Energy Union” concept in the EU, focusing on proposals by D. Tusk, J-C. Juncker and the European Commission. It then provides a comparative analysis of four country cases representing different energy mixes and energy policy directions: Germany, France, Poland and Norway. Having analysed the different interests and standpoints we move on to exploring the possible scenarios for the future of EU energy policy, emphasizing the potential impact of “Energy Union’s” governance mechanism which can reach far beyond what is expected and provide welcome coherence in Europe’s energy and climate policy.