New Study Advocates EU Support for Green Gas

The European Union needs better climate and energy policies if it is to reach its goal of net zero by 2050, according to a new study, Gas Decarbonisation Pathways. It was commissioned by the Gas for Climate consortium, which is comprised of transmission system operators. Among its suggestions is a binding mandate for 10% renewable gas by 2030.

Coupling the electricity, gas and heat sectors – by linking their markets and their respective infrastructure in a better-coordinated and integrated way – provides the greatest overall benefits for the European energy system, the study finds.

The European Green Deal can facilitate emission reductions, create sustainable EU jobs, and create first mover advantages for EU industry, the study by Guidehouse (formerly Navigant) says, by making gas infrastructure future-proof in an integrated energy system. The system of pipelines and terminals "will be a key asset for the sustainable and cost-efficient decarbonisation of the European economy."

This will mean fostering cross-border trade, including standardising gas quality and a guarantee of origin system for decarbonised gas. The EU Emissions Trading System also needs strengthening and extending to more sectors.

The CEOs of the twelve Gas for Climate members said in a statement April 22: “In this time of unprecedented public health challenges and economic pressure, climate change mitigation and economic recovery must go hand in hand. In the aftermath of the current health crisis, the required EU and national stimulus packages should also be seen as a three-fold opportunity for Europe. Beyond creating economic growth, stimulus packages can drive forward the energy transition and create sustainable jobs.”

The study came out two days after a dozen industry associations wrote to the European Commission and members of the European parliament calling for support for gaseous energy. They said it would be the cheapest way to achieve climate goals.