European Commission proposals to label some natural gas projects as “green investments” have stirred public debate recently and divided EU member states, but there is a very sensible undertone to this move that should sway critics of this vital transition fuel to finally embrace its benefits.
As we enter a new year, the climate change crisis is very much in focus, but energy security is an increasing concern and more countries are turning to natural gas and LNG to meet their supply needs. Also, as nations set ambitious emissions targets and goals, we must recognise that not all are currently able to commit full-scale investment into renewable alternatives. Because of these reasons – we must now enhance the adoption of suitable transitional fuels to help our journey to net zero.
Even more alarming and something that should further support this case is the recent report from the International Energy Agency which found, as we face increasing energy supply challenges, the world’s use of coal is increasing. After falling in 2019 and 2020, power generation from coal was expected to have risen 9% in 2021 – and the report finds one of the reasons is because low-carbon supplies cannot keep up with demand. The IEA found coal demand could reach an all-time high as soon as 2022. Having to revert to using heavier fossil fuels is not a position the world wants to find itself in.
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