Lithuanian and UK energy ministers discuss strengthening regional energy security
Lithuanian Minister of Energy Žygimantas Vaičiūnas met with UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Michael Shanks and discussed joint efforts to strengthen the protection of critical energy infrastructure in the Baltic Sea Region, strategic projects in the field of renewable energy, offshore wind development projects in the United Kingdom and opportunities for them in Lithuania, and prospects for the development of storage systems.
“Lithuania and the United Kingdom have been cooperating for many years to strengthen the energy security of our region. We appreciate the UK initiatives that help to increase resilience and ensure the reliable protection of energy infrastructure,” said Minister Vaičiūnas.
The meeting highlighted the need to further strengthen energy stability in the region. The ministers stressed the importance of protecting critical energy infrastructure both on land and at sea.
“The recent incidents of damage to undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea are clear evidence that this region is still a focus, so joint efforts to protect critical energy infrastructure from potential cyber and physical attacks must be intensified,” noted Mr Vaičiūnas. The minister went on to underscore that the Baltic States and Poland are ready to become a model for the protection and resilience of EU infrastructure, which could be applied in other regions as well.
During the meeting, the synchronisation of the Baltic States with the continental European network that was completed on 9 February 2025 was also discussed. “The priority now is to completely abandon any dependence on Russia. Lithuania has achieved its energy independence – it does not import Russian gas, oil or electricity. However, the situation in Europe is somewhat different – although significant progress has been made in discontinuing energy imports, imports of Russian liquefied natural gas continue to grow,” said the minister.
The potential for strengthening cooperation in the transition to clean energy with an emphasis on the development of renewable energy sources was discussed at the meeting as well.
Last updated: 15-04-2025
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