The European Commission is urging citizens to reduce fuel consumption amid an energy crisis that could last for years. Recommended measures include working from home, reducing travel, and limiting flights.
European Commissioner for Energy, Dan Jørgensen, delivered a clear message after an extraordinary meeting of EU Energy Ministers: the situation is serious and does not have a quick solution.
He warned that the effects of the crisis will be felt in the long term, even if hostilities were to cease in the immediate future. "Even if peace were to come tomorrow, we will not return to normal in the near future," the European official said, according to Politico.
Fuel saving becomes a priority
Brussels is particularly emphasizing the reduction of petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel consumption.
"The more you can do to save petrol, especially diesel and aviation fuel, the better it will be for us," Jørgensen stated.
European officials recommend that member states implement the measures proposed by the International Energy Agency (IEA): reducing highway speeds by 10 km/h, promoting public transport, limiting personal car use, encouraging car-sharing, and adopting an efficient driving style.
Long-term plan: accelerating renewable energy
In addition to immediate measures, the European Commission is calling on states to accelerate investments in renewable sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
"This must be the moment when we change direction and truly become energy independent," emphasized Jørgensen.
So far, the Energy Ministers' meeting has not concluded with concrete decisions, but the Commission promises a package of measures at the European level in the near future.
Global impact crisis: prices have surged
The warning comes amid a rapid rise in energy prices. Since the start of the US and Israel attacks on Iran, oil and gas prices have increased by up to 70%.
The blockades in the Persian Gulf affect about a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas deliveries, heightening the risk of a major energy crisis.
According to assessments discussed at the European level, the impact could surpass even the oil shock of the '70s and have economic effects comparable to the coronavirus pandemic.
EU seeks coordination, not quick solutions
European sources say discussions included possible state aid, nuclear energy development, and expanding the use of biofuels.
However, European diplomats quoted by Politico say that no concrete decisions were expected at this meeting, with the main objective being the coordination of the Union's response.
G.P.