Informal video conference of energy ministers, 31 March 2026

Main results

EU energy ministers met for an informal video conference in light of the developments in the Middle East. As the conflict enters its second month, ministers exchanged views on the coordination of the EU approach on energy.

Our energy supply is secure and the European Union has already in place tools and rules to ensure its stability.  However, a strong and coordinated response both at EU and national level is needed to protect our citizens and industries from the current energy price spikes. We must do so while safeguarding our energy independence on the pathway to a carbon-neutral energy sector.

Michael Damianos, Minister for Energy, Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Cyprus

The conflict in the Middle East and the resulting geopolitical instability are increasingly affecting global oil and gas markets, leading to rising energy prices across the globe. Since the beginning of the conflict, prices in the EU have risen by around 70% for gas and by 50% for oil.

Against this backdrop, ministers shared their assessment on the situation in the energy markets. They broadly acknowledged that the Union’s security of supply remains protected at this stage. At the same time they also concurred on the need for coordinated action at EU and national level, in order to mitigate the impact of high energy prices, in particular for vulnerable households and businesses.

In their interventions, EU energy ministers focused on concrete ways to address the volatility in the oil and gas markets in a coordinated manner within and beyond the EU, avoiding fragmented national responses and counteracting measures.  

Ministers also agreed that a timely and smooth preparation for the upcoming winter season, with early gas storage injections, is essential in order to mitigate high prices and avoid market tensions.

They also emphasised the importance to reduce the amount of energy being consumed.