Energising European Security: Changing EU Energy Policy in the Light of the Russian Invasion of Ukraine

Yevhen ABRAMOV

Master's thesis

Abstract:

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 triggered a deep energy crisis in the European Union, exposing its vulnerability due to its long-standing dependence on Russian energy sources. This thesis examines the multifaceted changes in the energy policies of the EU and its Member States since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, focusing on the interplay between energy security, diversification efforts and the evolving role of nuclear energy. The research uses a combination of Policy Discourse Analysis and Content Analysis to examine shifts in policy narratives, strategies and regulatory frameworks. The findings reveal a significant evolution in the EU's policy approach to energy, driven by the securitisation of renewables and a greater role for state intervention in energy markets. The crisis has accelerated the EU's transition towards renewable energy sources, while also prompting a partial reconsideration of nuclear power's potential contribution to decarbonisation goals. The thesis also highlights the challenges and complexities associated with diversifying energy supplies, reducing dependence on Russian gas and other fuels and the ambiguous role of nuclear power. The study stresses the need for a comprehensive and balanced approach that integrates energy security, diversification and the desired maximum environmental sustainability. Political and security issues and motivations are brought to the fore to understand the complexity of energy policy in the EU.

Abstract:

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 triggered a deep energy crisis in the European Union, exposing its vulnerability due to its long-standing dependence on Russian energy sources. This thesis examines the multifaceted changes in the energy policies of the EU and its Member States since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, focusing on the interplay between energy security, diversification efforts and the evolving role of nuclear energy. The research uses a combination of Policy Discourse Analysis and Content Analysis to examine shifts in policy narratives, strategies and regulatory frameworks. The findings reveal a significant evolution in the EU's policy approach to energy, driven by the securitisation of renewables and a greater role for state intervention in energy markets. The crisis has accelerated the EU's transition towards renewable energy sources, while also prompting a partial reconsideration of nuclear power's potential contribution to decarbonisation goals. The thesis also highlights the challenges and complexities associated with diversifying energy supplies, reducing dependence on Russian gas and other fuels and the ambiguous role of nuclear power. The study stresses the need for a comprehensive and balanced approach that integrates energy security, diversification and the desired maximum environmental sustainability. Political and security issues and motivations are brought to the fore to understand the complexity of energy policy in the EU.

Keywords

EU energy policy, energy security, renewable energy, diversification, energy transition

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 1. 8. 2024

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: Mgr. Lukáš Perutka, Ph.D.

Palacký University Olomouc

Faculty of Arts

Master programme / field:
Humanities / Euroculture