Media: Romania’s gas paradox highlights strategic role of Azerbaijani energy supplies

An analytical piece published by HotNews.ro, one of Romania’s leading news platforms, examines a notable contradiction in Europe’s current energy agenda. The article is authored by Florentina Cernat, a Romanian journalist specialising in economic issues, who explores the paradox through the lens of regional energy flows and cross-border cooperation.

The analysis points out that although Romania ranks among the leading European Union states in terms of domestic natural gas production, a sharp rise in consumption during the winter months places significant pressure on the country’s gas balance. This imbalance is attributed not only to production levels but also to technical limitations of gas storage facilities, infrastructure bottlenecks, and existing market mechanisms. Consequently, Romania is compelled to import gas during periods of peak winter demand.

Regional cooperation features prominently in the article. It notes that interconnectors linking Romania with neighbouring countries play a crucial role in covering short-term gas needs, underscoring that modern energy security can no longer be ensured solely within national borders but increasingly depends on coordination at regional and European levels.

The article further highlights Azerbaijan’s growing importance in Europe’s energy landscape. As a major gas exporter in the Caspian region, Azerbaijan has emerged in recent years as a significant partner for European energy security. Azerbaijani gas delivered to Europe via the Southern Gas Corridor is described as a reliable alternative source for several countries, Romania included.

Florentina Cernat argues that reducing Romania’s seasonal vulnerability hinges largely on diversifying supply sources, with a particular emphasis on expanding the share of Azerbaijani gas available on the European market.

The author emphasises that the current circumstances bring Romania to a strategic crossroads. On the one hand, Bucharest needs to accelerate domestic production and advance offshore projects in the Black Sea. On the other, it must deepen regional and international energy partnerships. Within this framework, cooperation with Azerbaijan is portrayed as a cornerstone not only of economic resilience but also of long-term energy security.

The article concludes by noting that Romania’s gas paradox reflects broader trends affecting Europe as a whole. In this wider context, Azerbaijan’s role continues to grow, assuming increasing strategic importance in safeguarding Europe’s energy stability, particularly during the winter season.

By Tamilla Hasanova