Romania, Hungary, Georgia, and Azerbaijan unite for Black Sea power line

On a Tuesday in Bucharest, Romania, government ministers from Romania, Hungary, Georgia, and Azerbaijan convened to launch a joint venture aimed at installing a power line beneath the Black Sea. This initiative is designed to facilitate the transfer of renewable energy from the eastern Caucasus to the European Union, particularly targeting energy security and price stabilization for EU consumers. The project gained urgency following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which highlighted the EU's heavy dependence on Russian energy sources and the need for diversification in energy supply. The undersea power line will connect Azerbaijan, known for its potential in wind energy generation at Caspian Sea wind farms, to Romania and Hungary through Georgia. This strategic infrastructure aims to enhance energy security in the region while also contributing to the EU's broader goals of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and addressing climate change. Azerbaijan's Energy Minister emphasized the dual benefits of the project, stating it would not only bolster energy security but also promote green energy initiatives. The meeting also included discussions with Bulgaria's deputy energy minister, indicating potential interest from Bulgaria in joining the project. The collaborative effort reflects a growing trend among European nations to seek alternative energy sources and reduce vulnerability to geopolitical tensions that can disrupt energy supplies. The next steps for the project will be discussed at an upcoming UN climate change meeting in Azerbaijan, where further collaboration and planning are expected to take place. This venture represents a significant move towards a more sustainable and secure energy future for the participating countries and the EU as a whole.