The European Union is aiming to improve its natural gas security. The European Parliament approved new rules and regulations for three new main concepts Sept. 12: First, authorities will introduce a "solidarity principle" under which neighboring states would help supply natural gas to another country in the event of a supply crisis. Second, the new rules will provide closer regional integration by setting up joint assessments on common risks and plans for preventative and emergency measures for potential natural gas shortages. Third, natural gas companies will be required to become more transparent, disclosing certain information for any long-term contract that affects the natural gas security of a member state. It applies to any contract that fulfills more than 28 percent of annual natural gas consumption for a country....
