ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes the measures that will be implemented according to the Europe 2020 Strategy will affect energy markets integration and regional energy agreements, in light of the general goal of "smart, sustainable and inclusive growth". In the current international economic crisis, assuring energy security of supply at affordable prices has come to the top of the list. The international economic and financial crisis, the difficulties on reaching a binding climate change agreement to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the geo-political situation in the Middle East countries and events of the last years contributed to convert energy issues in a global political issue. The promotion of renewable energies and the targets approved for every member state regarding the participation of renewable energies in total energy consumption for 2020, reinforced by directives and regulations which remark the importance of the external dimension of the EU Energy Policy, create the perfect framework to boost implementation of regional energy initiatives with third countries.
