Influence of EU common energy policy on Lithuania’s energy security after the treaty of Lisbon

Abstract

The Treaty of Lisbon brought many innovations into the European Union’s agenda, one of which is related to energy policies. The treaty came into force in 2009; until now there has been no evaluation of its practical implementation, especially concerning those member states that are particularly sensitive to all the changes that take place in the energy sector. The thesis “INFLUENCE OF EU COMMON ENERGY POLICY ON LITHUANIA’S ENERGY SECURITY AFTER THE TREATY OF LISBON” analyses the influence of post-Lisbon European Union common energy policies on Lithuania’s energy security. Using Rational Choice Institutionalism as a theoretical approach, the evaluation of the implementation of EU energy policies is done looking at how it minimizes energy security risks in its member state. The Traffic Light Model is used to produce the necessary classification of risks. The research is carried out using secondary data resources, document analysis and expert interviews. It can be observed that post-Lisbon policies have had a positive influence on Lithuania’s energy security; even the policies that are imposed by the Union are in accordance with Lithuania’s objectives. However, the result would be more tangible if Lithuania managed to take advantage of all the opportunities presented by the EU.