Energy has become a weapon: Minister called for learning from the war in Ukraine

"In our time, development is driven by energy. We are surrounded by devices that consume it; it is the foundation of our communication, comfort, and the basis of transportation systems. To implement innovations and provide services, entrepreneurs rely on stable energy supply systems," noted the minister, adding that the competitiveness of a country is directly influenced by the production of sustainable energy at competitive prices and energy costs.

Melnis emphasized that energy and its infrastructure are also used as weapons and are targets of strategic attacks. He cited the energy crisis in Europe in 2022 and the terror perpetrated by Russia against the citizens of Ukraine, leaving them without electricity and heat in winter as an example.

"We have energy; however, our energy system still largely relies on a historically established import market," the minister noted, adding that it is now necessary to learn from the past and what is happening on the front lines in Ukraine to create a system resilient to external interference.

According to Melnis, this cannot be done instantly; however, the development of the energy sector and strengthening independence is a matter of national security. The minister also emphasized that this is not an easy task, as restructuring systems that have been formed over decades is a very labor-intensive process, but it is necessary "for a safer and better future."

"By creating new models of cooperation, we are moving forward step by step. A vivid example is the successful integration of the Baltic region into the European energy grid a year ago, having previously operated effectively in a so-called 'island' mode," Melnis noted, adding that all technical tests have been successfully passed and the energy system is stable.