The Romanian president’s plan to address the issue of high energy prices
During the European Council meeting in Brussels, Romanian President Nicușor Dan shed light on the challenges posed by the current pricing system in the single market. He pointed out that this system penalizes countries that invest in renewable or cost-effective energy resources.
Explaining the pricing mechanism, Dan highlighted that all producers are paid based on the price of the most expensive energy source available at a given time. This results in cheaper energy producers facing challenges and consumers and companies in countries with significant renewable energy sources bearing high costs due to the expensive last bit of energy.
Proposed interventions to safeguard Romanian consumers
President Dan mentioned that the European Commission has shown openness to two intervention options aimed at protecting Romanian citizens from high energy bills. The discussions are set to continue in the Council in June, focusing on potentially capping gas prices and reclaiming excessive profits from energy producers.
Long-term energy strategy and European investments
Looking towards the future, Nicușor Dan emphasized that Europe has taken a significant step by recognizing nuclear energy as a strategic solution. He also highlighted Romania’s reliance on a substantial European investment package to enhance its transport networks and connectivity with the continent.
With the European Commission proposing a 30 billion euro investment in networks and interconnections across Europe, the goal is to create a more integrated European energy market. The Council’s agreement to support nuclear energy signifies a shift in energy policies, with even countries reconsidering their stance on nuclear power plants.
