Lithuania has recently enacted several significant amendments and initiatives to strengthen its energy security and promote sustainability. Here is the Energy sector news for Q4 of 2024.
POWER: Amendments to the Law on Electricity
On 12 November 2024, Lithuania’s Parliament adopted significant amendments to the Law on Electricity. These amendments aim to strengthen national security by prohibiting companies from countries deemed a threat to Lithuania’s security, such as China, from managing electricity generation and storage systems with a capacity exceeding 100 kW. Additionally, the amendments prevent remote control of such critical infrastructure, ensuring that Lithuania retains control over its energy systems and minimising the risk of foreign influence in its energy sector.
ENERGY AND CLIMATE: Updated National Energy and Climate Action Plan
Lithuania has updated its National Energy and Climate Action Plan for the period 2021-2030, aligning it with the newly adopted National Energy Independence Strategy. This updated plan is set to drive the country’s energy transition, with a forecasted investment value of approximately EUR 31 billion. The plan emphasises sustainability, energy independence, and the expansion of renewable energy sources, marking a crucial step in Lithuania’s commitment to achieving its climate targets and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
GAS: European Energy Exchange Replacing GET Baltic
As of 27 May 2025, gas trading in the Baltic States and Finland will transition from the GET Baltic exchange to the European Energy Exchange (EEX). While GET Baltic’s role in direct trading will end, it will continue as a competence centre for gas market development in the region, providing support to customers and contributing to the evolution of the gas market in the Baltics and Finland. This move aims to integrate the Baltic gas market further into the European energy network, promoting greater efficiency and competitiveness.
CO2: Establishment of the CO2 Platform
On 29 October 2024, Lithuania’s Ministry of Energy, in collaboration with other ministries and stakeholders, officially launched the CO2 platform focused on carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). The platform’s goal is to foster technological innovation, support the clean energy transition, and contribute to environmental objectives by offering a collaborative space for stakeholders. Through dedicated working groups, the platform will address key issues surrounding CCUS technologies, ensuring a cohesive approach to tackling climate challenges.
WIND: Relaunch of the Offshore Wind Auction
The National Energy Regulatory Council relaunched Lithuania’s offshore wind auction on 18 November 2024, offering state support for a wind farm with a maximum generating capacity of 700 MW. Participants in the auction can register and submit tender documents until 18 March 2025. Unlike previous tenders, this auction allows the participation of a single entity, and applicants may request state support for the electricity generated. This move aims to expedite the development of Lithuania’s offshore wind potential and increase its renewable energy output.
NUCLEAR: Agreement Regarding Cooperation in the Implementation of the Civil Nuclear Program
Lithuania has entered into an agreement with the United States to cooperate on the implementation of its civil nuclear program. Under this agreement, the U.S. will share its expertise in developing next-generation nuclear energy technologies, including small modular reactors. The agreement also involves the preparation of a business model analysis for these reactors and an assessment of their development opportunities, positioning Lithuania to explore advanced nuclear options as part of its broader energy strategy.
LNG: Takeover of LNG Carrier Independence
On 6 December 2024, Lithuania officially took ownership of the LNG carrier Independence, previously leased from the Norwegian company Höegh Evi. The vessel was registered in the Register of Seagoing Ships of the Republic of Lithuania. This acquisition is a significant step in enhancing Lithuania’s energy security, as the Independence plays a key role in the country’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) import and export strategy, supporting energy diversification and reducing reliance on traditional gas suppliers.
