The Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference (BSPC) is pleased to announce the release of the Interim Report from the BSPC Working Group on Energy Security, Self-Sustainability, Resilience, and Connectivity (ESSRC). This report marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the region’s energy security and resilience following the group’s establishment at the 32nd BSPC in August 2023.
Background and Purpose
The Working Group was formed in response to the heightened need for energy security and self-sustainability in the Baltic Sea region, particularly in light of recent geopolitical challenges. The BSPC recognised the urgent requirement to address the vulnerabilities exposed by the region’s previous energy dependencies, notably the reliance on fossil fuels from Russia. The group’s mission is to explore and recommend strategies that promote energy independence, sustainable development, and increased resilience across member states.
Key Meetings and Discussions
Since its inception, the Working Group has convened three major meetings:
- Riga, October 2023: The inaugural meeting established the guiding principles and action plan for the Working Group. Discussions focused on the critical areas of energy, defence, transport, and digital connectivity, setting the stage for future collaborations. https://www.bspc.net/inaugural-meeting-of-the-bspc-working-group-on-energy-security-self-sustainability-resilience-and-connectivity-in-riga/
- Helsinki, March 2024: The second meeting emphasised the geopolitical implications of energy security, strategies to counter hybrid threats, and the importance of regional cooperation. Experts provided insights into the ongoing energy transition and the need for enhanced interconnections across the Baltic Sea region. https://www.bspc.net/energy-policy-and-energy-security-in-the-baltic-sea-region-with-attention-to-the-protection-of-critical-infrastructure/
- Greifswald, May 2024: The third meeting centred on safeguarding critical infrastructure, particularly in maritime transport, and the challenges of maintaining regional stability. The discussions underscored the significance of robust defence and transport networks in ensuring energy security and resilience. https://www.bspc.net/protecting-critical-infrastructure-energy-transformation-reducing-energy-dependency-research-for-the-energy-of-the-future-and-the-dismantling-of-a-nuclear-power-plant/
Highlights of the Interim Report
The Interim Report encapsulates the progress and findings from the first two meetings, offering a comprehensive overview of the region’s energy landscape and the strategies needed to secure a sustainable future. Some key highlights include:
• Energy Security and Self-Sustainability: The report discusses the necessity of transitioning away from fossil fuel dependency, particularly on Russian energy, towards more sustainable and renewable energy sources. It highlights the potential of green energy, including wind and hydrogen, as well as the importance of regional collaboration in energy research and innovation.
• Resilience and Connectivity: The report emphasises the need for greater interconnectivity in the democratic Baltic Sea region, advocating for a more integrated and resilient energy market. It also addresses the crucial role of digital and transport infrastructure in supporting energy security and resilience.
• Political Recommendations: The report proposes a series of political recommendations aimed at enhancing regional energy security, promoting sustainability, and improving resilience. These recommendations will be presented at the 33rd BSPC in Helsingør, Denmark, in August 2024.
Next Steps
The Working Group will continue its efforts, with the aim of delivering a final report by June 2025. The ongoing work will include a detailed evaluation of the third session and further discussions, expert consultations, and the development of actionable strategies that can be implemented across the democratic Baltic Sea region.
Conclusion
The BSPC Working Group’s Interim Report represents a critical step forward in addressing the energy challenges facing the democratic Baltic Sea region. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the Working Group is laying the groundwork for a more secure, sustainable, and resilient future. The BSPC encourages all stakeholders to engage with the findings of this report and to support the continued efforts to strengthen energy security and sustainability in the region.
The full Interim Report can be downloaded here and on the Working Group’s webpage. We invite all interested parties to review the report and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on energy security and resilience in the Baltic Sea region.