The role of natural gas in Europe – today and in the future
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The gas market has certainly experienced a tremendous upheaval. New sources of supply, the comeback of coal, declines in domestic production, and the slump in oil and gas prices have had a long-lasting impact on the industry. But one thing was certain for the experts at the European Gas Conference: Gas is and will remain a central pillar of Europe’s energy mix.
Europe will need more gas – already in a very short time and we will need pipelines to bring that gas to Europe.
Alexander Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Management Committee, Gazprom
Natural Gas as partner for renewables
If we are to take climate change seriously, then natural gas is the only ideal partner for renewables. Natural gas is flexible in its application and can be used in every sphere. What’s more, the existing gas infrastructure and the available energy storage capability can be used to store electricity produced from renewable sources.
Europe needs a consistent energy policy and not particular policies of individual countries. The implementation of COP 21 targets could be realized on such a level, too.
Manfred Leitner, Member of the Executive Board, responsible for OMV Downstream
Natural gas in Europe’s energy mix
More than 400 policymakers and top industry representatives met at the end of January at the tenth European Gas Conference in Vienna. We made the most of this opportunity and invited some of them to appear on camera and tell us about the role of natural gas today and in the future.