The emergency situation is entering the European Union, with Commission to present today (Wednesday 22/4) an extensive package of measures to prevent a previous energy crisis.

Europe, caught between rapid geopolitical developments and the flare-up in the Persian Gulf, is attempting to “put out fires” on multiple fronts. Since 28 February, when war broke out in Iran, the EU has been operating in an environment of intense uncertainty. Initial concerns about high prices have now turned to fears about gas supplies, while possible restrictions on jet fuel and reduced capacity at refineries are also coming to the fore.

The instability in the Sea of Hormuz remains a key factor. This critical maritime artery remains “in limbo”, with Donald Trump’s unstable diplomacy offering no clear security guarantees, intensifying the energy thriller.

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Measures on the Commission table

According to draft documents revealed by POLITICO, the EU is geared toward a strategy “within the bounds of reality,” with an emphasis on temporary interventions and leveraging existing legislation:

  • Stream subsidies: Possibility of covering up to 70% of the cost of wholesale bills by December.
  • Fuel subsidies: Coverage of up to 50% of additional costs for sectors directly affected.
  • Tax relief: Targeted interventions to reduce energy bills.

In short, today’s proposals by the Commission are expected to lead to an extension or even expansion of the support measures already in place in Greece.

After all, just yesterday Finance Minister and Eurogroup chairman Kyriakos Pierrakakis announced a new support package, while today Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is expected to present a new package of measures worth 500 million euros. euros.

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“Hostages of the situation”

About the immediate measures, much of the Brussels response remains either long-term or at the planning level. On the one hand, investment in the green energy and climate agenda is being accelerated, and on the other hand, immediate solutions are being sought for coordination of states and demand reduction.

At the same time, the problems in energy are so extensive, diverse and fluid that many doubt that the measures will be enough. Increased subsidies, it is noted, may provide temporary relief, but will hardly have a meaningful impact.

The harsh reality is that weaning from fossil fuels requires time and resources that are not readily available.

“Not all countries can quickly switch to electricity – but this is the only solution,” said Lithuania’s Energy Minister, Zigimantas Vaitsiunas, noting meaningfully:
“Sometimes we are hostage to the situation”.

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