Energy Strategies of Western Europe in the 1980S: Dependable Supplies Versus Security Implications

摘要

The basic aim of this study is to emphasize the various strategies available to the countries of Western Europe when dealing with problems connected with their energy dependence and their effort to secure dependable supplies. The first part of the study focuses on the historical trends and the nature and extent of the energy problems in Western Europe since 1973. The various alternative strategies available for securing more dependable energy supplies for the Western European countries are analyzed in the second part. The last part of this study analyzes the problem of securing dependable energy supplies and their various security implications. Special attention is given to motives of the Soviet Union in proposing the natural gas pipeline project and those of the West European countries in accepting sizeable increases in their gas imports from the Soviet Union. Special attention is given to the concern voiced by the United States for the impact of Soviet gas deliveries to the NATO alliance. These discussions emphasize issues affecting both the economic security and political autonomy of the West European countries and the future alternatives available to them. (ERA citation 07:059646)