The recent energy crisis triggered by the Russian invasion of Ukraine has profoundly reshaped regional economies across the Baltic
region, transforming energy from a market commodity into a strategic and geopolitical resource. While existing literature emphasises
disruption and vulnerability, this paper reframes the crisis as a catalyst for social innovation. Drawing on a comparative analysis of
Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Poland, the study examines how rising energy prices, supply insecurity and policy responses have stimulated
new forms of behavioural adaptation, collective action and institutional change. Particular attention is given to decentralised energy practices, prosumer models and governance innovation. The findings reveal that social innovation emerges unevenly across national contexts, shaped by structural conditions, institutional capacity and geopolitical positioning. The paper argues that energy shocks can function as transformative moments, fostering resilience while also exposing internal divergences within the European Union, and reshaping regional pathways toward sustainability.
The aim of the article is to analyze the results of the Bulgarian renewable energy policy in the context of the EU aims and global renewable energy system (RES) investments till 2014. The policy is examined through comparison of the aims as stated in the National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NREAP) of Bulgaria and the achieved results. They are evaluated in respect of renewables share in final energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and household access to green energy sources. The main outcomes show a low level of decentralized energy generation and pressure upon electricity price increase.