In an interview with Il Giornale, Gianni Murano, the president of Unem, emphasizes the pressing need for Europe to reopen its refineries, which have been systematically closed in recent years due to economic unappeal. He argues that the European energy market has been driven by a misunderstanding of strategic factors, as decisions made in Brussels have treated energy prices as largely independent from geopolitical influences and regulatory strategies. Murano stresses that the closures have detrimental implications for energy security and must be reassessed immediately.

Murano critiques the current regulatory approach taken by Brussels, urging a shift from tactical to strategic consideration of energy regulations. He highlights that energy prices in Europe are influenced by various factors, including geopolitical realities and regulatory decisions, particularly those related to carbon pricing and other systemic costs. The cumulative effect of these influences renders Europe's energy sector less attractive and poses significant risks to supply stability, especially in challenging situations.

The call to action from Murano is clear: European authorities must critically evaluate past decisions affecting energy policies and consider reopening refineries as part of a broader strategy to enhance energy security and stabilize prices. This move is viewed as essential not just for immediate supply guarantees but also for long-term sustainability in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.