8th Annual EUSAIR Forum

Countries through the Adriatic and Ionian Region are confronted with unprecedented challenges regarding the transition towards decarbonised energy systems to contribute to the fight against global climate change.  And there is the need to enhance security of energy supply with consideration for the new geopolitical context and threats while maintaining energy competitiveness and granting affordable and reliable access to energy sources. Power and natural gas networks and delivery have a fundamental role in this respect.

The Session focused on the idea of an Energy Green Deal for the Adriatic and Ionian Region which means an increased degree of energy cooperation through the Region concerning the “greening” of the energy systems and their integration while facing the shared challenges. Most of the Countries in the Region are preparing and designing their National Plans for Energy and Climate with a view at the year 2030 and beyond. Coordination and harmonisation of these Plans has been advocated also as a means to facilitate and accelerate the access to the European Union of Countries from the Western Balkan Region.

Proposals and recommendations have been presented by the Key-note Speakers as they are emerging from two strategic project developments which have been launched and guided by the EUSAIR Pillar II Sub-Group on Energy Networks.

1.  The EUSAIR Master Plan on Energy Networks for the Adriatic and Ionian Region, as presented by Mr. Davide Tabarelli, President, Nomisma Energia, Italy, is highlighting three possible energy scenarios for the long term including a carbon-neutral scenario by the year 2050. Key messages are speeding up the integration and interconnection of energy networks through the Adriatic and Ionian Region, enhancing energy efficiency and moving towards an increased degree of electrification while preparing for the hydrogen economy. The EU enlargement and access would be facilitated by these actions.
2. The Road Map towards a EUSAIR Power Exchange and Natrual Gas Trading Hub for the Adriatic and Ionian Region as presented by Mr. Guido Cervigni, Managing Director, DFC Economics, Italy is displaying roadblocks and difficulties which are preventing the formation and operation of coordinated and well-functioning electricity and natural gas markets through the Region. Actions are recommended to remove these roadblocks including a clear vision of the benefits which would result from coordinated actions and regulatory measures to open and connected the markets while taking advantage from complementary characteristics and energy endowments.