In defence of a European High Authority for Energy

The energy issue is a source of growing concern in Europe. The supply of hydrocarbons vital for the efficient running of the economy and European societies, increasingly escapes the control of European leaders due to their often problematic geographical location as well as a constant rise in non-European demand. This dual edged phenomenon which is linked to the increasing scarcity of these resources, is leading to a continuous rise in prices and geopolitical threats. In order to counter these threats the European Union has to establish a common policy founded on an improved control of consumption and a diversification of the sources of supply. Increased co-ordination between Member States based on the principle of mutual solidarity appears to be one of the vital factors in this voluntary drive to master the energy issue. Does this mean in fact that Europe requires a High Authority for Energy? (author)