LAUSR

The main aim of the article is to compare the energy relations of the EU with current (here represented by Angola) and potential energy-resource suppliers (here represented by Tanzania) in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2007–2018. In this article, the external actorness of the EU in its energy relations is analysed and specified based on a set of predefined criteria of a modified concept: (1) external recognition of the EU energy actorness by third parties; (2) goals and interests of EU energy policy; and (3) instruments and resources of EU energy policy. The criteria are then applied to two case studies focused on Angola and Tanzania in order to demonstrate whether the EU can be considered as an actor in regard to these two Sub-Saharan Africa countries. While Angola does not recognize the EU as an energy actor, Tanzania meets all of the requirements for the recognition of EU energy actorness.