Energy Rationing
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has prompted much discussion of energy supply issues and the possibility of energy rationing. Earl (2020) cited the head of the International Energy Agency, Fatih Birol, on the risk of energy shortages and rationing in Europe in the coming winter and the need for governments to reduce consumer demand and secure alternative energy supplies. The IEA had earlier called for restrictions on driving and air travel. An article on the economic aspects of the situation points to the increasing risk of recession (Bakkum, 2022). The author considers it likely that “Russia will cut off more gas supplies to Europe” and notes that “Germany and the Netherlands have already moved to an emergency gas plan” prioritising energy security over climate ambitions. An opinion piece from Euromoney argues that energy price caps are unlikely to solve the problem for Europe which will be “running on empty by March”: it advocates testing the systems and practical procedures f