In November 2008, the European Union adopted "The raw materials initiative - meeting our critical needs for growth and jobs in Europe", dealing especially with ensuring the future needs of metallic and non-metallic raw materials for EU member state economies. After years of hesitation, this may undoubtedly be considered a very progressive step. The article lists the most relevant reasons why the EU should promptly proceed to the discussion and preparation of a similar material of higher legal force for energy minerals. Basic problem areas of forming a political platform for the preparation of the EU energy initiative include the exploitation of domestic energy raw material deposits, raw materials diplomacy, and the matter of renewable sources. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.