Effects of the Russia-Ukraine War on Georgia’s Energy Security in the Short-Term Perspective

July 6, 2022

On June 10, the NGO World Experience for Georgia (WEG) presented the findings of its research on effects of the Russia-Ukraine War for Georgia’s energy security in the short-term perspective.

The research was carried out with support from a USAID Civil Society Engagement Program Rapid Response Grant and covers the following topics:

Dependence on imports from Russia – electricity, natural gas, and petroleum products
The Enguri HPP and energy supply of Abkhazia
Russian capital in Georgia’s energy sector and the consequences of sanctions
The EU’s energy policy towards Russia and its consequences for Georgia’s energy supply

The research answered questions regarding the influence of Russian energy on Georgia (particularly amid the Russia-Ukraine war) as well as key challenges Georgia faces and potential mitigation measures.

According to the research, in the short-term perspective, Russia has no significant energy leverage against Georgia, both in terms of cutting off or threatening to cut off energy supply in the form of political blackmail. However, the report also recommended that the relevant bodies assess the possible risks on an ongoing basis and develop preventive measures and solutions.

The full report in English is available here.