The Energy Domino: The Effects of the Russia-Ukraine War on Georgia's Energy Landscape
Published 16 June 2023
Introduction
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has significantly shifted the geopolitical landscape and sent shockwaves through various sectors of the economy and supply chains around the world. The conflict caused a ripple effect, and its far-reaching implications reverberated throughout the global stage. As a result of Europe's overdependence on low-priced Russian natural gas, the energy sector has been among the hardest-hit parts of the economy.
Due to its location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia has historically been pivotal in regional energy dynamics by acting as a transit corridor between the East and the West. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, however, has thrust Georgia into a unique position-one that carries both risks and opportunities for its energy sector. As the global eye narrows on this region, it becomes increasingly pertinent to dissect the implications of this war on Georgia's energy scenario, both in terms of its current infrastructure and potential future projects.
This article explores the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Georgia's energy sector, with a focus on the implications of new infrastructure projects such as the Black Sea submarine cable and a liquified natural gas (LNG) terminal in Georgia. In light of these seismic shifts, understanding how Georgia navigates its energy course is crucial not just for the country but for the broader geopolitical and energy landscape of the region.
This paper will be part of the OGEL Special Issue on "The Impact of the War in Ukraine on the Energy Sector". More information here www.ogel.org/news.asp?key=718