What is Energy Security? Input from the BSRYF Working Group Energy & Transport

Reliability means stable energy supply 

WG member Matilda Kaari from Finland underlines that to ensure the reliability of energy supply in the Baltic Sea, a combination of measures is required. Diverse energy sources to prevent dependence on a single route or supplier is a must. Strong regional interconnections that allow countries to support one another during shortages are important, but European grid synchronisation would also enable broader backup capacity. While protecting critical infrastructure remains essential, one cannot rule out the possibility of sabotage. Therefore, maintaining a stable energy supply in the Baltic Sea is vital. 

Affordability means reasonable energy prices 

WG Coordinator Kyriakos Kourtidis from Poland emphasizes that affordability means making sure that energy remains financially accessible for households, businesses, and public services without compromising sustainability. The war in Ukraine has exposed the vulnerabilities of energy supply and the volatility of prices. Cross-border electricity markets can help stabilize prices by allowing electricity to flow from regions with surplus to those facing shortages, reducing dependence on a single supplier or energy route. Removing administrative and technical barriers to energy trading across the internal EU borders is a prerequisite for a successful cross-border energy cooperation. Regulated price caps can also provide temporary relief during periods of extreme volatility. Local renewable production through wind, biomass, and emerging technologies like green hydrogen, along with energy communities, where citizens jointly produce and manage energy, can lower costs by reducing dependence on expensive imports. 

Sustainability means renewables expansion & decarbonization 

WG member Julia Daszkiewicz from Poland believes that sustainability requires rapid growth in renewable energy and a definite path towards decarbonization and the green transition. In the Baltic Sea region, expanding offshore wind, supported by energy-storage solutions and effective transmission networks, can secure long-term resilience across the region. The implementation of green hydrogen, low emission mobility from electric vehicles to cleaner aviation fuels, and adaptation of energy-efficient solutions can contribute to the climate goals. Cross-border collaboration, consistent policy frameworks and shared investments are essential for the long-term independence of the Baltic Sea states. 

Resilience means infrastructure protection & supply diversification 

WG member David Duong from Germany suggests that treating a resilient energy infrastructure means security. All nations must coordinate, supervise and safeguard the choke-points and their cyber-space. Energy must always flow, even if the main lines are severed. Be it in the Suwałki gap, under the Baltic Sea or in the control room – Our safety and preparedness is our resilience, so that no light shall go dark! 

​​​ Taking Action for Regional Energy Security 

Energy security in the Baltic Sea Region cannot be achieved by individual countries alone, it requires regional coordination. Investments in interconnections, grids, and renewable energy must be planned collectively, while market rules and infrastructure development should be harmonized across borders. Sharing data, risks, and response mechanisms for both cyber and physical threats will strengthen preparedness. Joint projects, such as offshore wind farms and LNG storage facilities, should be accelerated to enhance supply stability. 

By acting together, the region can ensure a secure energy supply, stabilize prices, accelerate decarbonization, and build resilience against future energy crises.