Buildings

Gas Use in Buildings

Gases are used in buildings for different purposes, especially water heating, cooking and space heating. This is often done by boilers, which are heated using gas, and that heat is then distributed to water for your sink or shower, or to the radiators in each of your rooms. This happens at a larger scale for buildings that are bigger, such as apartments or commercial buildings.

Across Europe

Every country has a different energy mix and building stock with its own specificities. Across the EU, around 40% of energy consumed is used in buildings.

In 2021, natural gas accounted for 33.5% of the EU final energy consumption in households. Thanks to its versatility, reliability, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility, gas is an optimal choice for many heating and energy needs. The ramp-up of renewable gases, such as biomethane and hydrogen, will ensure the gradual switch from natural gas to renewable and low-carbon molecules and, along with energy efficiency measures, will ensure our building stock is on track to net-zero.

Decarbonising Buildings with Gaseous Energy

There are many efficient solutions and technologies relying on gases for heating which can play a role in the cost-effective decarbonisation of buildings, such as:

  • District heating
  • Hydrogen-ready and biomethane-ready boilers
  • Combined heat and power (CHP)
  • Fuel cells
  • Hybrid and thermally driven heat pumps (THDPs)

Many buildings already have gaseous infrastructure in place, making it easier to install gas-powered appliances or retrofit existing systems to use renewable and low-carbon gases. A bottom-up and multi-technology perspective will ensure that the transition is cost-efficient and help reduce the risk of interruption or shortages in supply.

Empowering Consumers

As decarbonisation proceeds, the role and behaviour of gas consumers are likely to undergo significant changes.

The energy transition will impact individuals differently and Member States will need to ensure low-carbon homes remain affordable to all. Energy poverty is a multi-faceted phenomenon that will require the collaboration of many stakeholders to find sustainable solutions. Eurogas supports the establishment of a clear framework for protecting these consumers, while also preparing them for the transformations that decarbonisation will bring.