Natural Gas – The Unavoidable Dilemma in Europe’s Race To 2030

Published 04 December 2024

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Europe's pursuit of decarbonisation by 2030 presents a complex challenge: balancing the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions whilst maintaining energy security. Natural gas, traditionally a cornerstone of Europe's energy mix, is now at the centre of this debate.

Natural Gas as a Transitional Fuel

Natural gas has been considered a “bridge fuel” due to its lower carbon emissions compared to coal and oil. It offers a flexible and reliable energy source that can complement intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar. However, its role in a decarbonised future is contentious. Some experts argue that continued reliance on natural gas could hinder the transition to fully renewable energy systems.

Public Perception and Investment Challenges

Public opinion in Europe increasingly favours renewable energy and stringent climate action. Surveys indicate strong support for transitioning to low-carbon and nuclear-free economies. This shift influences policy decisions and investment strategies, creating a complex regulatory environment for natural gas infrastructure. Investors face uncertainty regarding the long-term viability of natural gas projects amid evolving regulations and societal expectations.

The Eastern European Context

In Eastern Europe, natural gas remains a critical component of the energy mix, essential for economic stability and energy security. The region's infrastructure and historical reliance on natural gas make an immediate transition to renewables challenging. Therefore, natural gas is viewed as a necessary element in the gradual shift towards cleaner energy sources.

Continuing the Conversation at EGC 2025

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

Panel Highlight: Natural Gas – The Unavoidable Dilemma in Europe’s Race to 2030

This panel addresses the contentious role of natural gas in balancing Europe’s decarbonisation goals with energy security needs. Leaders like Maria Rita Galli, Mathios Rigas, Xavier Rousseau and Peder Bjorland will debate the hydrogen hype versus reality, the public’s perception of natural gas, and how to foster investment in a complex regulatory environment. The session will highlight the strategic importance of natural gas in Eastern Europe and its role in complementing renewable energy sources.

Join the Discussion

Explore this session and other critical discussions shaping Europe’s energy transition at EGC 2025.

View the full egc agenda

Bibliography

Clean Energy Wire. (2024). Polls Reveal Citizen Support for Climate Action and Energy Transition. https://www.cleanenergywire.org/factsheets/polls-reveal-citizens-support-energiewende
European Commission. (2024). In Focus: EU Energy Security and Gas Supplies. https://energy.ec.europa.eu/news/focus-eu-energy-security-and-gas-supplies-2024-02-15_en
Holz, F., Richter, P. M., & Egging, R. (2015). The Role of Natural Gas in a Low-Carbon Europe. The Energy Journal, 36(SI), 23-38. https://www.jstor.org/stable/26294136
European Social Survey. (2017). Public Perceptions on Climate Change and Energy in Europe and Russia. https://www.europeansocialsurvey.org/sites/default/files/2023-06/ESS8_pawcer_climate_change.pdf
International Energy Agency. (2018). A Long-Term View of Natural Gas Security in the European Union. https://www.iea.org/commentaries/a-long-term-view-of-natural-gas-security-in-the-european-union

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