The European Commonwealth was a political union of European states that existed before the Great War. In 2052, Europe was heavily dependent on oil imports, and the European Union has called on members of the trading bloc to reduce their use of natural gas as Russia reduces deliveries. Wholesale natural gas prices rose last week when Russia announced reduced flows through the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline, which transports natural gas from Russia to Germany and has now been reduced to 20 percent of normal capacity. Energy experts warn that a brutal heat wave, hydropower shortages and corrosion problems in French nuclear reactors are contributing to the continent's worsening energy crisis, according to The Wall Street Journal. The EU and its member states have taken steps to minimize the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy.
To support the EU's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, temporary state aid rules were adopted that allow member states to financially support businesses and citizens struggling due to the economic consequences of COVID-19. The transport sector has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, with a drastic reduction in demand and transport services throughout the EU territory. The EU's emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been impressive. From ensuring safe and effective vaccines to sending medical teams where they are most needed and receiving patients from other countries; from protecting jobs and workers to helping partner countries around the world, EU countries have done everything they can to support each other. The energy crisis in Europe is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. With rising natural gas prices, hydropower shortages, and corrosion problems in nuclear reactors, it is clear that Europe needs to find a way to reduce its dependence on oil imports and develop alternative sources of energy.
The EU's emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic has shown that it is possible for member states to work together as a team to help people overcome difficult times. Now is the time for Europe to come together again and find a solution to its energy crisis.
