The global order has changed dramatically in recent years. The invasion of Ukraine and the instability generated by the conflict in Iran have had catastrophic consequences – not only due to the violations of human rights and international law, but also because they have triggered rising inflation and sharp increases in fuel prices. These shocks threaten Europe’s economic stability, undermine households’ access to energy, and increase costs across agriculture, transport, and industry.
Europe’s vulnerability is structural: 90% of the gas and 96% of the oil consumed across the continent are imported from outside of Europe, meaning every dollar added to the global price of oil becomes a direct transfer of wealth from Europe to producing nations. Reducing this dependency is not only an environmental priority – it is an economic and geopolitical imperative.
Several European countries are already demonstrating that progress is possible. Spain generates nearly 60% of its electricity from renewable sources, a key factor behind its stronger economic performance compared to much of the European Union. Denmark produces nearly 80% of its electricity from wind and other clean sources and Italy has surpassed 40% renewable electricity generation.
Europe cannot remain exposed to unpredictable foreign policies that impose sanctions one day and withdraw them the next. A unified and strategic European energy transition – anchored in clean, domestic, and affordable energy – is essential. Only by accelerating renewables and making more efforts in the field of energy efficiency can Europe ensure citizens’ right to a healthy environment, guarantee fair access to energy, and build the energy sovereignty needed to strengthen its democratic and economic resilience.