Fostering the EU Energy Transition through Participatory Digital Sovereignty

This essay examines the emergence of European energy sovereignty in the context of the EU’s twin digital and green transitions, against the backdrop of recent geopolitical and energy crises. Building on the evolution of EU energy law, the analysis shows how the principle of solidarity has progressively shifted from a tool of economic integration to the foundation of a participatory and multilevel governance framework. Within this context, the contribution explores the role of blockchain technology as an enabling infrastructure for decentralised, inclusive and democratic energy systems, capable of bridging energy sovereignty and digital sovereignty. Drawing on theoretical insights and selected case studies, the essay argues that blockchain can move beyond its conventional portrayal as a neoliberal technology and instead function as a catalyst for an inclusive energy transition, empowering citizens, local communities and public authorities while reinforcing the EU’s strategic autonomy and sustainability objectives.