A two-day meeting of the Council of Baltic Sea States (CBSS) in Stavanger, Norway, agreed to further the development of infrastructure across borders, to further develop a stable framework for the energy sector, i.e. 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, says the CBSS.
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. They also recognised 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.