Georgia - the crossroads of Europe and Asia - an important factor in the regional energy landscape

Since independence, Georgia’s full-fledged integration into the European Union is not only the foreign policy goal of our country, but also the driving force for the construction and development of a democratic state. Georgia’s strategic location and possession of rich renewable, unconventional energy resources give us a unique chance to become a hub, a “middle corridor” and a conduit for “green energies”. Georgians are ready to use this opportunity for further alignment with the ambitious energy goals of the European Union and the “Green Agreement” of Europe. Our push towards the European Union has been preceded by intensive communication and cooperation on energy legislation, regulations and energy policy, as well as improving energy infrastructure. This is how the so-called mega-project of the 21st century – the Black Sea submarine cable project – was created. The initiative involved in the project is more than simple infrastructure development; It is a symbol of Georgia’s integration and interconnection with the European Union. The Black Sea submarine cable will not only enhance energy security and diversity, but also serve as a renewable energy exchange channel between Asia and Europe. The idea of the Black Sea submarine cable project was born in Georgia, and Georgian geologists carried out technical works to explore the bottom of the Black Sea. At the next stage, Azerbaijan, Romania and Hungary were included in this project. The most important agreement was signed by the representatives of all four countries. The purpose of our research is to determine in advance what economic benefits Georgia will receive during the implementation of this important project, and we will be able to export the energy of renewable resources of our country, if we remain only as a transit corridor, which is also very attractive, although less profitable. While working on the article, we evaluated the potential of Georgia’s renewable, non-traditional energy sources, their target indicators and characteristics. Based on the researched information, we developed conclusions and recommendations. Keywords: renewable, non-conventional energy resources, Black Sea submarine cable, energy security, “green energy”, European integration. VIEW ARTICLE