The need for realism in how the energy transition is achieved was emphasized by the Minister of Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavrou, speaking at the 11th Delphi Economic Forum 2026 in a discussion with the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission responsible for a Clean, Fair and Competitive Transition, Teresa Ribera.

“For years, decarbonization functioned like a holy grail, not only in Brussels but also in many other countries, and it was interpreted as something that takes precedence over social cohesion, competitiveness, or deindustrialization. Now we all realize that it is not an end in itself. We understand how important it is, without sacrificing environmental protection and the need to reduce emissions, to move forward, but to do so in a realistic way and to remain technologically neutral,” Mr. Papastavrou stressed.

In response to a question about the energy crisis, he underlined that in 2022 it took more than a year for member states to accept that they needed to take action and begin discussions. “This time it took only two weeks. Europe does not have perfect reflexes, but it has proven that when a crisis comes it has the strength and maturity to take measures,” he noted, adding: “It is clear that we must take targeted measures that will protect social cohesion and will not undermine fiscal stability, but at the same time will not create inequalities. And at the same time, we must move towards a single European energy market.”

The Minister of Environment and Energy referred to Greece’s progress in its energy mix, noting that in 2005 Greece covered over 65% of its electricity needs from lignite, while in 2025 lignite has fallen below 8% and Renewable Energy Sources have reached 55%. “The share of Renewable Energy Sources in the country’s energy mix places Greece 7th globally. And if we compare greenhouse gas emissions over the same period, we are below 50%. This shows that environmental protection is not a luxury. It is something society can support, as long as it is done in realistic terms and takes into account economic competitiveness and social cohesion,” he said.

Referring to the Grid Directive, he noted that many countries openly opposed it. “We fought a big battle. I hope that developments in the Middle East will lead in June to the approval of the package for the grid,” he stressed.

The Vice-President of the European Commission, on her part, noted that the EU is more resilient to crises compared to 2022. “We are in a better position. We have the means to respond, we know that we must act together and quickly. That is why the impact is not as great as in the Ukrainian crisis,” Ms. Ribera stressed.