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Expanding Regas and FSRU Capacity: Shaping the European LNG Market

 

Published 04 December 2024

EGC24 - Article Feature Image & LinkedIn Banner_Southeast Europe Gas Markets – Reconfiguring Supply Flows and Replacing Russian Gas

In response to the urgent need to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on Russian gas, Europe has significantly expanded its liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure. This expansion includes the development of regasification facilities and Floating Storage Regasification Units (FSRUs) across several countries, notably Croatia, Italy, and the Netherlands. 

Croatia's LNG Initiatives 

Croatia has enhanced its energy security through the LNG terminal on the island of KRK, operational since January 2021. This facility serves as a strategic gateway for LNG distribution in Central and Southeast Europe, with a maximum annual send-out capacity of 2.6 billion cubic meters of natural gas. Plans are underway to expand this capacity by installing an additional regasification module, further bolstering the region's energy diversification efforts.  

Italy's FSRU Developments 

Italy has accelerated its LNG import capabilities by deploying FSRUs, such as the Piombino terminal, which became operational in May 2024. These units have been pivotal in mitigating energy crises by enabling rapid increases in LNG import volumes. The strategic placement of FSRUs along Italy's coastline enhances the country's ability to access global LNG markets, thereby strengthening its energy security. 

The Netherlands' Expansion

The Netherlands has augmented its LNG infrastructure with the EemsEnergy terminal, which commenced operations in September 2022. This facility, consisting of two FSRU vessels, added approximately 0.8 billion cubic feet per day to the country's regasification capacity. Such expansions are crucial for accommodating increased LNG imports, thereby reducing dependence on traditional pipeline gas supplies. 

Continuing the Conversation at EGC 2025 

Engage with these critical developments at EGC 2025, Europe's premier gas conference. The event convenes senior energy leaders to discuss energy security, infrastructure advancements, and decarbonisation strategies under Chatham House Rules, ensuring confidential and impactful dialogues. 

Session Highlight: Expanding Regas and FSRU Capacity—Shaping the European LNG Market 

This session focuses on regional projects driving Europe’s LNG expansion, including regasification and FSRU developments in Croatia, Italy, and the Netherlands. Executives will share strategies to enhance Europe’s energy security and reduce dependence on Russian gas. Attendees can engage in discussions on how LNG infrastructure is evolving to meet growing energy demands. 

Dive Deeper into Europe's LNG Transformation 

To explore this session and other critical discussions shaping Europe’s energy transition, view the full agenda below:

Bibliography
  1. European Commission. “Expansion of the LNG Terminal on the Island of KRK Operational.” Accessed November 29, 2024. https://commission.europa.eu/projects/expansion-LNG-terminal-island-KRK-operational_en 
  2. S&P Global Commodity Insights. “European FSRU Buildout Set to Continue in 2024.” Published December 19, 2023. https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights/en/market-insights/latest-news/LNG/121923-european-fsru-buildout-set-to-continue-in-2024 
  3. LNG Industry. “EIA: Europe’s LNG Import Capacity Set to Expand by One-Third by End of 2024.” Published December 1, 2022. https://www.LNGindustry.com/regasification/01122022/eia-europes-LNG-import-capacity-set-to-expand-by-one-third-by-end-of-2024/ 
  4. U.S. Energy Information Administration. “Europe’s LNG Import Capacity Set to Expand by One-Third by End of 2024.” Published November 30, 2022. https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=54780 

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