Future of the gas networks: Study demands changes to comply with climate goals

Future of the gas networks: Study demands changes to comply with climate goals

Berlin, October 30, 2024 - alarming knowledge from a new study! The gap between planning the gas infrastructure and the climate targets is getting bigger. The eco-institute and the Regulatory Assistance Project (RAP) reveal that the reform of the gas distribution systems is of crucial importance for the future of our energy supply. When it comes to climate protection and decarbonization, action is now required!

The current scenarios draw a dark picture: In order to achieve Europe's ambitious goal of a net zero energy industry by 2050, emissions must be drastically reduced. However, many member states ignore the alarming trends and continue to plan to maintain or even expand their gas distribution systems. What's going on here?

The huge challenge of regulation

Warning the authors of the study: If nothing is done, devastating consequences are threatened! Unluined investments, failed climate goals and an enormous financial burden for vulnerable consumers are just a few of the dangers that could come to society. It is urgently needed to improve the regulatory supervision, to take into account the interests of those involved and to create transparency in the information distribution.

"Our analysis shows that the gas network operators are planning in many countries, maintaining or even expanding existing gas networks. This contradicts the national climate scenarios that suggest that we should at least shut down parts of our gas networks," says Jan Rosenow, Vice President and Program Director of Europe at RAP. The expert's outcry is unmistakable!

urgent measures required

The research results also shed light on positive examples from some countries that can serve as a model. "The study underlines the urgency of stricter rules to support the decommissioning of gas networks and to promote and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy systems," emphasizes Marc Stobbe, scientist at the eco-institute. The pressure on the decision -makers is growing!

A comprehensive examination of the gas infrastructure and regulation in Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Austria and Great Britain has uncovered seven joint regulatory obstacles for the decommissioning of gas networks, as well as six concrete recommendations for adapting the planning to the climate goals. The ball is now with those responsible!

A fight against the clock leads to society and we have to ask ourselves: Are the states ready to rethink their plans in order to meet the needs of the environment and the population? The time to act is now!