It is important to use Latvia's advantage when implementing energy strategy - ministry

RIGA, May 22 (LETA) - It is important to use Latvia's advantage and natural gas infrastructure, the available natural resources and liberalized power and gas markets when implementing energy strategy, said Climate and Energy Ministry's state secretary Liga Kurevska at the Saeima energy forum.

She said that the ministry currently is working in three energy directions - power, natural gas and heating. Power consumption in Latvia is 7.1 TWh, heating - nine TWh and and heating supply - 5.7 TWh.

Speaking about consumption forecasts, power consumption in 2030 is expected to grow by 5-10 percent because of electrification. Natural gas consumption is expected to be 10-15 percent higher, mostly because of synchronization. Heating energy consumption is expected to drop 10-15 percent because of energy efficiency measures.

Kurevska said that when speaking about energy strategy, Latvia's starting position should be considered, which is much better than for many other countries. Latvia's advantage includes natural resources, a strong energy infrastructure and liberalized energy markets.

She also said that there is a large number of cattle, pig and poultry farms in Latvia that would be able to generate biomethane. The amount would be sufficient to cover consumption of all Latvian residents. Also, Latvia is the fourth country in Europe by the share of forests. Another significant resource is wind - its overall potential is 15 GW.

Kurevska underscored that Latvia's infrastructure is another advantage. It includes Daugava's hydro power plant cascades, thermal power plants and Incukalns underground natural gas storage facility.

She said that the guidelines for Latvia's energy policy are energy independence and export, efficient use of network and advantage to market economy and price signals.