Unconventional gas research initiative for clean energy transition in Europe

Abstract

The clean energy transition and EU 2020 targets require a further shift from coal and oil toward natural gas. As a relatively clean fossil fuel, gas must bridge the transition period required for renewable energy technologies to mature such that larger energy quantities can be economically produced to meet demand. Until then, gas is required in Europe and energy scenarios suggest natural gas consumption will reach 650 bcma in 2020 and 780 bcma in 2030. However, conventional gas production in the EU will decline to 230 bcma in 2020 and 140 bcma in 2030. This means the dependency on intercontinental LNG and pipeline imports will increase further and – by 2030 – must account for up to 80% of total gas supply. Consequently, the development of European unconventional gas resources could reduce the required gas imports and would improve security of supply – and also reduces the risk of price shock. This paper outlines the imminent decline of Europe’s conventional gas production, highlights the potential of unconventional gas resources and advocates the key role of R&D to improve the performance of unconventional gas projects. Delft University of Technology has launched the Unconventional Gas Research Initiative (UGRI). The research framework, vision, aims and targets are outlined in this report.