EU Energy Commissioner warns: "The power grid is an easy target"
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen highlights the vulnerability of the European power grid to sabotage and cyberattacks following recent incidents.
During a discussion at the Munich Security Conference, EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen expressed serious concerns about the vulnerability of the European power grid to both physical sabotage and cyberattacks. He cited recent incidents, including arson in Berlin and a series of suspected attacks on undersea cables in the Baltic Sea, which underscore the ease with which adversaries can target critical energy infrastructure. Jørgensen referred to these developments as a 'wake-up call' for the EU, emphasizing the urgent need to enhance the security of energy infrastructure.
Jørgensen's comments come amidst a broader push for energy security within the EU, particularly in light of the increasing threat from both state and non-state actors. He warned that without bolstered energy security, there can be no overall safety for EU member states. The Commissioner noted an alarming rise in cyberattacks on energy networks, which poses a significant threat to both the economy and public safety. His statement indicates a shift in policy focus, as he suggested that future assistance would be limited to well-protected networks, thus pushing for a reevaluation of current security measures.
Moreover, Jørgensen criticized a perceived double standard in energy security, pointing out that while the EU must not become dependent on external powers, the same vigilance does not seem to apply to relationships with the U.S. This raises critical questions about the EU's energy strategy and its implications for international energy cooperation. As the discussion around energy security evolves, the emphasis on safeguarding infrastructure against an array of threats will likely become a central theme in EU policy discussions moving forward.