January 27, 2026
Europe faces an increasing challenge in the field of energy security, as events have proven that the shift towards American liquefied natural gas, which now constitutes about 60% of European Union imports, was nothing but the replacement of a historical dependency on Russian pipelines with a new dependency on Washington.
American dependency: guarantee or risk?
Despite the celebration of energy independence in recent years, US gas is not under the control of the European Union, and exporting companies and logistics services are subject to US domestic policies. This leaves Brussels vulnerable to price fluctuations or sudden supply shortages in the event of shipments being diverted to other markets or shipping disruptions, repeating old problems of relying on a single source, even a powerful ally.
“Groningen” field: the forgotten strategic reserve
In light of this fragile situation, controversy has returned in the Netherlands over the “Groningen” gas field, which is the largest onshore gas field on the continent. This field, which was previously closed due to seismic concerns and societal pressures, is now being proposed as a strategic emergency option. The current debate centers on preserving the field’s infrastructure (wells, compressors, pipelines) as a backup plan that would allow a rapid restart to meet any sudden shortages, giving Europe greater flexibility and reducing absolute dependence on the outside.
The philosophy of flexibility versus efficiency
The Dutch debate reflects a new European realization that diversification alone is not enough to ensure independence, unless there is domestic redundancy and the ability to respond quickly in crisis situations. Preserving Groningen exemplifies a philosophy that prioritizes strategic flexibility over short-term efficiency.
Europe today faces two options: either an energy transition that makes it captive to external supplies, or a flexible transition that integrates domestic reserve options. Reconsidering “Groningen” is not just a Dutch issue, but rather an alarm bell for the entire continent about the future of its energy sovereignty.
