The Greek Minister of Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavrou, arrived in Brussels to participate in the EU Energy Ministers’ Council on Monday, March 16.
Upon entering the council chamber, he warned that Europe is facing an international crisis that is testing its resilience. He noted that rising energy prices are affecting households, businesses, and daily life across the continent, and stressed the need for Europe to respond with targeted measures and flexibility to protect citizens and the economy.
The minister highlighted that Greece had recorded the sixth-lowest wholesale electricity price in Europe in the first ten days of March, attributing this to the country’s diversified energy mix, renewable sources, and hydroelectric capacity. He emphasized that Greece is moving forward with a clear plan, underlining that the government is not complacent regarding energy security, price stability, or the protection of citizens and businesses.
In response to a question, Papastavrou underscored the importance of energy networks, describing them as essential for achieving a unified, resilient, and interconnected Europe. He suggested that now is the moment for the EU to take a decisive step toward establishing a truly integrated European energy market.
Energy ministers are set to explore options for containing energy costs, while officials are developing emergency plans to mitigate the impact of the sharp increase in oil and natural gas prices driven by the conflict in Iran.
Meanwhile, the European Commission is preparing emergency measures to shield consumers from rising energy bills. According to informed EU sources, these measures could include state support for industries, tax reductions, and leveraging the upcoming revision of the EU carbon emissions trading system to ease the supply of CO2 allowances.