The recent disconnection of the Baltic states—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—from the BRELL electrical grid, which includes Belarus and Russia, sparked waves of pride and optimism among their populations and political leaders.
The switch to the European Union’s grid was intended as a symbolic break from the Soviet past, even though Russia has long operated under a different political system.
Problems after switching to the EU network
Shortly after the transition, problems emerged, revealing the double-edged nature of this decision.
Energy prices surged by up to 50%, heavily impacting the industrial sector. Lithuanian factories are now forced to reduce electricity consumption by 10.3% as wholesale market prices on platforms like NordPool jumped from €124/MWh to €186/MWh.
Pressure on green energy sources caused declines in wind and hydropower production, increasing reliance on gas, whose price has now hit a two-year peak.
Inadequate Preparedness
Despite years of preparations for the EU grid transition, starting as early as 2022, the Baltic states are only now launching tenders worth €102 million to purchase energy storage systems to stabilize the grid.
It is now clear that preparatory steps for this massive shift were insufficient or even reckless!
Data analysis confirms that after the February 9th switch, electricity prices more than doubled compared to previous averages. Harsh weather conditions—low temperatures and weak winds—worsened the situation, with wind farms operating at just 25% capacity.
Kaja Kallas and Russia’s Response
Current European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas was a key advocate for severing energy ties with Russia, emphasizing the symbolic and geopolitical significance of the move. However, her current silence on the economic struggles post-switch now appears deeply concerning. Claims of Russian energy threats also seem exaggerated; if Russia wanted to pressure these states, it would have already done so by weaponizing as reducing electricity supplies.
In reality, Russia did not cut power to Estonia, Latvia, or Lithuania, despite their harsh rhetoric and military support for Ukraine.
What’s Next?
If energy prices do not drop soon, there is a risk of severe damage to the Baltic states’ economic stability.
The EU is struggling to support the region, but the grid transition has exposed vulnerabilities in the Baltic energy system that demand swift and effective solutions.
The question remains: Will political symbolism and pride overshadow the urgent pragmatism required for energy independence in these turbulent times?
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