EU Energy Market Split as Nine Countries Oppose Intervention

Nine European Union member states have issued a joint statement opposing hasty interventions in the internal electricity and gas market, citing concerns that such measures could disrupt innovation and security of supply.

The nine countries, led by Germany and Austria, argue that targeted support for vulnerable customers and businesses is more effective in addressing the current crisis than large-scale market reforms.

In contrast, France, Spain, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Greece have proposed strengthening energy independence through coordinated natural gas purchases and common rules for natural gas storage.

The EU's internal energy market has been a key driver of innovation and security of supply in recent decades, but rising prices are causing concern among member states as they recover from the coronavirus crisis.