BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 20. Rapidly deploying an array of clean energy technologies globally could free up around 350 bcm of natural gas by 2025, Trend reports with reference to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
The agency says in its report that efficiency gains would contribute around 210 bcm to the total, the deployment of renewables would contribute about 100 bcm, and the remainder would come from an increase in the use of bioenergy and direct use of heat, hydrogen and geothermal.
“Producer economies in the Middle East and North Africa have the potential to reduce around 70 bcm of natural gas consumption through the rapid deployment of clean energy technologies, thereby freeing this gas for export. Currently, oil and gas account for almost 95 percent of electricity generation in this region. Over 150 bcm of natural gas – around one-fifth of the region’s total gas consumption – is used each year in low-efficiency gas-fired power plants. By expanding renewable deployment and other clean energy technologies, the region stands to gain gas export revenues while boosting local economies and clean energy supply chains,” says IEA.
The report reveals that curtailing flaring and methane emissions would save over 45 bcm of natural gas in countries that currently export to the European Union.
“Many of these measures could be implemented quickly, especially by replacing leaky equipment or by minimizing accidental leaks with frequent leak detection and repair programs. If all other LNG exporters, including Egypt, Australia, and Malaysia were to do the same, they could provide an additional 8 bcm to global gas markets without needing to construct any new LNG liquefaction terminals.”
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