ANALYSIS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY'S IMPACT ON ENERGY IMPORT DEPENDENCY IN LITHUANIA

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyse the security of energy supply of Lithuania, taking into account the use of renewable energy sources in the country. Using cluster analysis, the study categorizes Lithuania as a nation with above-average energy import dependence and an average utilization of renewable energy sources. In 2011, Lithuania's energy import dependency stood at 77.5%, with renewable energy accounting for 19.9% of the country's gross final energy consumption. Over the subsequent decade, as the proportion of renewable energy sources in gross final consumption rose to 28.2%, Lithuania's energy import dependence decreased to 73.3%. Should the present trajectory of energy import dependence persist, Lithuania's import reliance is projected to decrease by a mere 1% by 2025. Conversely, if the current trend in renewable energy adoption continues, the share of renewable energy sources in Lithuania's energy mix could potentially reach 31% by the same year. To substantially reduce future energy import dependence, it is imperative to introduce additional incentives and policies that promote a more rapid shift towards renewable energy sources.