Unlocking the Black Sea’s Strategic Energy Potential

As the European Union intensifies its efforts to diversify energy sources and bolster energy resilience, the Black Sea region stands out as a critical yet underutilized contributor to Europe's energy security, economic strength, and industrial decarbonization. 

Our latest paper highlights how the region’s vast natural gas and crude oil resources, its potential for low-carbon solutions such as CCS and hydrogen, and its strategic infrastructure position the Black Sea as a cornerstone of the EU’s clean industrial future. 

The paper calls for a coherent EU strategy that recognizes the Black Sea’s unique assets; not only as a source of secure, affordable energy but also as a platform for regional cooperation, innovation, and sustainable development. 

Key Takeaways 

• Strategic Resource Base:
  The Black Sea could supply up to 23 bcm of gas annually by 2030, with major contributions from Romania and Turkey. 
• Energy Security:
  Vast untapped reserves - including 2.3 billion barrels of oil and 3,000 bcm of gas - offer a buffer against external shocks. 
• Infrastructure & Connectivity:
  Upgrades to pipelines and cross-border interconnectors are crucial to unlock regional capacity. 
• Clean Energy Potential:
  Strong prospects for CCS and low-carbon hydrogen, especially in Romania, support EU decarbonisation goals. 
• Policy Action Needed:
  The EU must ensure regulatory clarity, infrastructure investment, and foster regional cooperation. 

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