Estimated time of reading: ~ 6 minutes

Europe stands at a pivotal moment as it navigates the complex challenges of an ongoing energy transition and sustained migration flows. Amid these pressures, a critical yet often overlooked question arises: does the availability and reliability of energy—particularly electricity—influence migration patterns both within and into the European Union? Emerging research and policy analyses suggest a decisive yes, revealing connections that stretch from rural communities to the corridors of EU governance. Energy availability is not merely a technical concern but a fundamental driver of economic activity, employment, and quality of life. Regions with abundant, reliable, and affordable energy tend to attract migrants due to the economic opportunities they offer. Empirical evidence from 20 EU countries between 2008 and 2021 confirms a causal relationship between higher energy consumption—often a proxy for economic vitality—and increased migration inflows. This trend is not just about people moving to where the lights are on, but rather about migrating toward regions with higher labor demand and improved living standards. Within the EU, rural areas lacking reliable electricity often experience depopulation as residents move to urban centers in search of better services and opportunities. Conversely, rural electrification can slow or even reverse this trend, as seen in both Brazil and parts of Eastern and Southern Europe. These internal dynamics underscore the importance of integrating energy infrastructure investment with strategies to combat rural decline. On the international front, Europe’s high electrification rates make it a favored destination for migrants seeking stability and opportunity, while enhancing energy access in origin countries could reduce the push factors driving emigration. The political dimension is equally significant—energy dependence can constrain EU migration policy, as illustrated during the 2022 energy crisis. At the same time, strengthening energy security and promoting renewables bolster the EU’s capacity to manage migration on its own terms. Migrants also contribute actively to energy development, particularly through remittances and knowledge transfer that support energy access in their countries of origin. However, barriers remain, especially for those with irregular status, who may face energy poverty in their host countries. Therefore, a coordinated policy approach is essential. Integrating energy and migration strategies can help manage demographic shifts while advancing sustainable development and social cohesion. Key policy measures include expanding rural electrification, investing in sustainable energy in origin countries, ensuring energy access for migrants, and securing EU energy independence. Ultimately, recognizing the deep interlinkages between energy and migration offers a path to a more resilient and integrated Europe—one where energy not only fuels economies but also illuminates routes to opportunity and inclusion.

Written by: Nenad Stekić