The European energy security strategy: Testing the limits of solidarity 1

The consideration of energy as a security challenge to be dealt with at European Union (EU) level is a fairly recent development. This chapter suggests that EU policy has contributed to mitigate energy security risks in a narrowly defined way: to prevent and manage supply crises affecting EU member states. The Energy Security Strategy refers explicitly to 'emergency/solidarity mechanisms', arguing that 'solidarity, that is the hallmark of the EU, requires practical assistance for those Member States most vulnerable to severe energy supply disruptions'. The chapter addresses the ever more complex share of roles between the EU and the member states in implementing the principles of transparency and solidarity. While diversification lies at the heart of the Energy Union and the European Energy Security Strategy, significant ambiguity remains on the type and extent of diversification sought and the means to achieve it.