For this reason, the European Commission is urging member states to prepare for prolonged disturbances in the energy market. The US/Israeli war with Iran is causing rising prices and increasing pressure on fuel availability.
The warning comes from Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen in a letter to energy ministers. It was sent last weekend ahead of an urgent meeting (Monday afternoon) about the conflict's consequences for Europe.
Use Less
According to Brussels, EU countries must be prepared for ongoing disruptions. The uncertainty about the duration of the crisis makes it necessary to plan ahead, Brussels says.
Promotion
Governments are asked to consider reducing consumption of oil and gas. The focus is primarily on the transport sector, where a large amount of fuel is used.
Specifically, this could mean that EU citizens have to drive or fly less. The Commission points out that the greatest vulnerability lies not in crude oil or natural gas, but in products such as diesel and aviation fuel. Europe is highly dependent on imports of these.
Dependence
This dependence makes the European market sensitive to disruptions. Shortages and higher costs impact the economy, putting pressure on businesses and households.
At the same time, it is emphasized that EU countries should not take measures that increase fuel consumption or hinder trade in oil products. Also, production in European refineries should not be slowed down.
Therefore, countries are advised to postpone non-essential refinery maintenance. This way, production levels can be maintained and shortages minimized as much as possible.