The baltic states' energy system

THE BALTIC STATES’ ENERGY SYSTEM SUMMARY The goal of paper – the comparative analysis of Baltic states‘ (i.e. of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia) energy systems in 1990-2004. The main causes that affected the development of Baltic states’ energetics are indicated in this work. By the method of statistical analysis, the comparative advantages of Baltic states‘ energetics are detected. Moreover, the main trends of further development of integration of Baltic states ‘ energetics into the energetics of European Union are evaluated. After the restoration of independence, the economy of Baltic states experienced serious downturn. In the analyzed period of 1990-2004, the transition from centralised to market economy was followed by huge changes in Baltic states‘ economy, including energy sector. In the period of 1990-1994 the production and the demand of energy significantly decreased because of the loss of Eastern markets and the increase of prices of primary energy resources. Observable economic growth of Baltic countries since 1995 is closely related with the development of energetics. There has been a steady growth of energy needs, use of indigenous energy resource and trade of energy resources with foreign countries. By seeking the membership in European Union Baltic states had to commit themselves to implement a good few tasks in the energy sector. It includes the creation of common liberalized Baltic electricity market, the increase in use of renewable energy resources, the reduction of environmental pollution etc. However, Baltic states still have not had alternative electricity relations with Western European markets. After the closure of Ignalina‘s nuclear plant it could negatively influence the reliable supply of electricity and the electricity prices in all Baltic states. Baltic states buy more than 90 percent of fuel energy resources from the only supplier - Russia. Hence in the future by increasing of energy needs, Baltic states have to develop energy system by relating its connections with Western Europe, and also they have to increase the use of local and renewable energy resources. To meet a deficit of electricity and reduce dependence from imported fuel resources Baltic states have to build a new nuclear plant reactor