| Abstract [eng] |
This master’s thesis analyses the application of green energy principles and the associated economic challenges in Lithuania in the context of the European Green Deal. The relevance of the topic is determined by Lithuania’s commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase the share of renewable energy sources, strengthen energy security, and at the same time ensure sustainable economic growth. The aim of the thesis is to assess how the implementation of green energy principles contributes to achieving the objectives of the Green Deal in Lithuania and to identify the main economic factors influencing this process. The objectives of the thesis include a theoretical analysis of the concept and principles of green energy, an assessment of the application of these principles in Lithuania, the selection and preparation of appropriate statistical data, the performance of quantitative analysis, and the formulation of conclusions and recommendations. The study examines five key green energy principles: reduction of dependence on fossil fuels, energy efficiency, energy security, development of the internal energy market, and research and innovation. The empirical analysis uses annual and quarterly data for Lithuania obtained from Eurostat, the Lithuanian State Data Agency, and the International Energy Agency. Annual data are applied to conduct the LMDI decomposition, which allows the identification of long-term structural and sectoral drivers of changes in energy consumption. Quarterly data are used to construct a regression model estimated using the OLS method in order to analyse short-term relationships between green energy indicators, macroeconomic factors, and energy system characteristics. Prior to the regression analysis, data stationarity is assessed using the ADF test, while model adequacy is evaluated using standard diagnostic tests. The results of the LMDI decomposition indicate that changes in energy consumption in Lithuania are significantly driven by the combined effects of economic activity, structural change, and energy intensity, reflecting long-term structural developments in energy use. The regression analysis reveals that renewable energy production, energy imports, investments, and energy price changes are statistically significant factors influencing the green energy development process. The findings confirm that the green transition is closely linked not only to environmental objectives but also to aspects of energy security and market stability. The conclusions of the thesis emphasise that green energy policy in Lithuania should be formulated on the basis of empirical evidence and a differentiated approach, taking sectoral differences into account. The results of the study can be used by policymakers in decision-making processes when planning public investments, regulatory measures, and the further implementation of the European Green Deal. |
