The Role of Natural Gas in Energy Transition
As of 2004 and continuously to this day, the annual growth rate of renewable sources has been greater than that of all fossil fuels combined. In the midst of this transition to cleaner energy, natural gas is the only fossil fuel that has increased its share in the global energy matrix. Technological changes in the LNG supply chain, as well as transformations in the global natural gas market, largely explain this growth. This publication provides evidence on the fundamental role that natural gas plays in the energy transition, given that: (i) its greenhouse gas emissions are substantially lower than those of oil and coal; (ii) it provides the firm power necessary to complement intermittent renewable energies; (iii) it is particularly safe compared to other fossil fuels. In line with these attributes, the International Energy Agency projects that the share of natural gas in the global energy matrix by 2040 will remain stable (around 24%), even in its Sustainable Development Scenario, which would allow to meet the goals established in the Paris Agreement.