Introduction. Europe is facing a growing demand for energy, with volatile prices and with serious disruptions in the energy supply. In 2014, the EU’s energy dependency was 53.4%, which meant that the EU bloc had to import more than half of the energy it consumed. To address these issues, a clear European energy strategy is needed, that is why the European Union has adopted a Democratic or participatory way of leadership.
Aim of the study. Leadership is a complex and dynamic process that has been defined in many different ways. Leadership has been described as autocratic, democratic, situational, transformational, and free rein. Democratic or participatory leadership style involves consultation with group members on actions and decisions, and encourages and rewards involvement in the process. These leaders make decisions and set goals with the approval and full participation of the members. That is why today Europe has common rules and Member States put their efforts together to access sufficient energy at affordable prices, keeping pollution to a minimum.
Keywords: European Union policy, energy dependence, leadership, energy strategy, interconnection, energy security, energy market, affordable electricity prices.
JEL Classification: F15, F21, F42, F5, F6, L11, Q4