These conclusions were drawn from the discussion focused on integration of European energy, which was held within the framework of the Economic Forum yesterday. All participants –ministers from Poland and Lithuania, as well as experts, emphasized the importance of building cross-border connections –gas pipelines and transmission lines. And they are necessary especially in a crisis situation. – We are an island in terms of energy – said Deputy Minister of Treasury, Mikołaj Budzanowski. – We have only one gas pipeline on the western border, and it is not enough to make the situation secure.
[wyimek]91 percent of gas imported by Poland comes from Russia [/wyimek]
Poland is linked with Germany via a gas pipeline in the region of Lasowo, but it can transport only approx. 1 billion cubic meters of gas a year. Meanwhile, the demand in Poland is approx. 14 billion cubic meters and imports from Russia are – more than 8 billion cubic meters. Deputy Minister Budzanowski reminded also about the ban on re-export of Russian gas, which is binding for Poland and other clients of Russian Gazprom . – Although this rule is inconsistent with the EU law and the free market principle – he added. – We are trying to change the situation, building an LNG terminal in Swinoujscie. We can announce that it will be undoubtedly operative in 2014.
Polish authorities expect that the terminal will function not only for the needs of our market, but also serve the purpose of improving security of supplies to Baltic countries, especially Lithuania. This plan is connected with the idea of building a gas pipeline connecting Poland with Lithuania. Lithuanian Minister for Energy Arvydas Sekmokas assured that construction of this pipeline is reasonable and has support of the European Commission.
- I’m glad that the issue of building a gas pipeline connecting our countries has been put forward clearly – stated Deividas Matulionis, the head of the Office of Lithuania’s PM.. – Solidarity between our countries as regards energy has a special meaning.
