Europe’s Energy Security: Lessons Learned Four Years After Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine
Four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine triggered a global energy crisis, Europe finds itself in a more secure, though not entirely stable, position. While progress has been made in diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on Russian gas, vulnerabilities remain, particularly concerning electricity prices and the ongoing require for a rapid energy transition. The question remains: has Europe truly learned from the crises of the past four years?
From Gas Dependence to Diversification
In 2022, Russia supplied 45% of the European Union’s gas imports. Today, that figure has fallen to 13%, with the EU on track to eliminate Russian gas imports entirely by October 2027, despite some resistance from countries like Hungary and Slovakia . This shift has been achieved through increased imports of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), with the EU adding eleven new regasification plants and increasing import capacity by a third .
However, this diversification has come with a trade-off. While reducing dependence on Russia, Europe has grow increasingly reliant on the United States, which now accounts for over a quarter of European gas imports . Experts like Szymon Kardaś of the European Council on Foreign Relations argue that while this new dependence is less precarious than the previous one – as the US cannot unilaterally halt supplies like Russia’s Gazprom could – it still presents strategic challenges .
Reduced Consumption and Strategic Reserves
Alongside diversification, Europe has significantly reduced its overall gas consumption. In 2025, the EU consumed 3,480 terawatt hours (Twh) of gas, a decrease of 18% compared to 2021 . This reduction is attributed to a combination of factors, including a slowdown in heavy industry and increased energy efficiency measures.
The EU has also implemented regulations requiring member states to fill gas storage facilities to 85-90% capacity before winter. Recognizing the price spikes caused by simultaneous purchasing in 2022, the European Commission is now encouraging governments to review storage objectives to mitigate price pressures .
Electricity Market Vulnerabilities Remain
While progress has been made in securing gas supplies, the electricity market remains more vulnerable. Renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind, now account for 30% of electricity consumption in the EU, up from 20% in 2020 . Combined with nuclear power (around 23%), renewables and other non-fossil fuel sources now generate 48% of the EU’s electricity.
However, the structure of the wholesale electricity market continues to expose consumers to price volatility. Because electricity prices are often set by the most expensive source of power – typically gas-fired plants – fluctuations in gas prices directly impact electricity costs. This is particularly evident in Italy and Germany, where electricity prices remain heavily influenced by gas, while Spain and France, with greater renewable capacity, have seen more stable prices .
The Path Forward: Accelerating the Energy Transition
Experts agree that the long-term solution to Europe’s energy security challenges lies in accelerating the energy transition. This includes expanding renewable energy capacity, improving energy efficiency, and electrifying sectors currently reliant on fossil fuels. The European Investment Bank (EIB) provided €33 billion in loans in 2025 for renewable energy and grid strengthening, as part of the REPowerEU plan .
As Chris Rosslowe, chief analyst at Ember, points out, the transport sector remains a major consumer of oil, highlighting the need for further electrification. A shift towards clean electricity and a more diversified, resilient energy system is crucial for safeguarding Europe’s energy future.