Dear decarbonisation leaders,
We represent the gas infrastructure operators of Europe (GIE): our members work on fostering a resilient, secure, affordable and sustainable energy system for EU citizens and industries. We work and innovate with transmission, underground storage, and LNG terminal facilities. In other words, we offer solutions to store and transport renewable and low-carbon molecules – including hydrogen, natural gas or biogas – in large volumes and over long distances. These activities represent around 50 000 jobs across Europe.
In these challenging times, the importance of the security of gas supply is being recalled to all of us. Even though decarbonisation, integration and innovation remain pivotal, the need to diversify the roads for energy supply is highlighted. That’s simply essential if we want to deliver climate and social objectives in the most sustainable and efficient way. Good news: gas infrastructure can do that. Adapted policy levers must now put in place to enable it to unveil its full potential, including a major diversification.
We offer valuable solutions to strengthen energy security in Europe. LNG facilities could contribute to import above 250 bcm of renewables and low-carbon molecules from all around Europe. Storages can store 110 BCM of gasses. Transmission could broaden gas flows from west to east. It would be the occasion to broaden Europe’s choice in terms of energy providers therefore accessing to enhance flexibility. New European investments in infrastructures would enable to strengthen further the security of supply by increasing market interconnection, import terminals, storage capacity, grid interoperability and flexibility for more low-carbon and renewable gases.
It is now time to act to enhance security of supply. And this is what our members are doing.
Kind regards,
Torben Brabo