Energy Minister Lantos Urges EU to Back Fossil Fuel Infrastructure Expansion

Brussels: Europe must continue to support the modernization and capacity expansion of fossil fuel infrastructure to ensure security of supply, Energy Minister Csaba Lantos emphasized at Monday’s EU Energy Council meeting.

According to About Hungary, the Energy Council adopted a partial general approach on the draft regulation governing the European network financing instrument for the 2028-2034 period, with Hungary abstaining from the vote. Minister Lantos pointed out a significant shortcoming in the proposal, noting the lack of support for fossil fuel infrastructure despite the European Commission’s expectation for member states to diversify their gas procurement.

The minister highlighted Hungary’s stance that European energy policy should be grounded in physical and geopolitical realities. He argued that a viable and rational energy strategy requires this approach, and Hungary expects financial assistance from the European Union for enhancements that bolster the security of hydrocarbon infrastructure.

The statement disclosed that ministers also discussed the European Network Package, recently published by the European Commission, for the first time. Energy Minister Lantos remarked that a new ‘electricity price wall’ had emerged in Europe, extending from Gdansk to Trieste, which underscored the necessity for further decisive actions to improve the integration of electricity networks across the continent.

Minister Lantos expressed concerns over the proposed top-down approach to planning future investments, suggesting it raised legitimate concerns among member states. While recognizing the potential of an EU-level coordinated framework, he stressed that it would be acceptable only if it allowed for national characteristics and individual energy strategy priorities.

He emphasized that variations in geography, infrastructure, and energy mixes mean a one-size-fits-all solution is impractical for Europe. Effective coordination should respect national competencies while enhancing overall energy security.

Concluding his remarks, Energy Minister Lantos reiterated the importance of continued support for hydrocarbon infrastructure projects alongside other energy investments. He stressed that gas and oil networks remain crucial for maintaining secure, affordable, and reliable energy supplies in the future.