Press Release

1 December 1998

Successful Baltic region Energy Cooperation Conference

The Norwegian Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Ms. Marit Arnstad, has hosted a two-day meeting in Stavanger with the ministers of energy of the Member States of the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) and a representative of the European Commission.

A number of energy issues have been discussed. Here follows a summary of some of the most important areas of common interest to the participants:

The ministers see the conference in Stavanger as an important step in a cooperative process where the Member States of the CBSS continue to consult each other and to develop joint measures in the field of energy. Joint efforts in recent years in the Nordic Council of Ministers and recent work between the CBSS countries have shown that good results can be achieved and that mutual benefits are possible from such joint action.

The Baltic Sea Region comprises both major energy producers and major consumers. The region is favourably suited for the building of a reliable and comprehensive energy system. Regional energy cooperation should be encouraged at all relevant levels.

Energy supply is fundamental for economic growth. In the Baltic Sea Region the preconditions for satisfying energy needs are to a large degree present. It is our responsibility to ensure that energy is used in an effective and environmentally sound way.

Any development of an energy supply system in the Baltic Sea Region must meet the criteria for sustainable development.

Shaping the Baltic Sea Region energy cooperation in the 21st century

The ministers of energy have agreed to cooperate on facilitating the production of economically viable and more environmentally sound energy sources in the Baltic Sea Region, to further the development of infrastructure across the borders, to further develop a stable framework for the energy sector, i.a. by encouraging public and private investment, and to ensure a level playing field for competition between energy sources. Among other measures energy taxes should stimulate the effective use of energy and a transition to more environmentally sound energy sources. As has been demonstrated up till now, exchange of information constitutes the basis for successful cooperation.

Increased regional integration of the electricity as well as the gas market

The ministers are convinced that increased integration of the electricity market as well as the gas market in the Region is necessary for more efficient and environmentally sound use of electricity and gas. We also recognise that a precondition for increased integration is that steps are taken towards harmonisation, adaptation and realisation of environmental and trading rules and regulations. Public/private collaboration on energy issues is needed as well as a dialogue on investment opportunities. The required framework calls for active participation by industry. Research into renewables and energy efficiency is essential to stimulate innovation and new developments in the energy sector.

Nuclear sector

Recognising the fact that nuclear power constitutes a substantial part of the energy supply in several Baltic Sea states, the ministers emphasise the importance of a high level of safety at nuclear installations. The ministers also stress the necessity of finding lasting solutions to spent fuel and radioactive waste management, and of inviting all states to adopt the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management.

The group has agreed to meet again at ministerial level in autumn 1999.