Power Generation

The process of generating electricity for homes, businesses, industries and infrastructure is complex, and the decarbonisation of this sector only adds complexity. Yet, as a crucial component of modern society, it is important that this process is done in accordance with the decarbonisation of the rest of European society.

Decarbonising power generation involves substantial upfront investments. Moreover, the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources presents challenges for maintaining grid stability and ensuring reliable energy supply. Integrating large amounts of variable renewable energy into the grid requires significant upgrades to grid infrastructure and the development of energy storage technologies to balance supply and demand effectively.

Gas in Power Generation

Gas, as a versatile and efficient energy source, plays a crucial role in power generation across Europe and can be used to bridge the gap. Its flexibility enables it to complement renewable energy sources, providing stability to the grid and ensuring reliable electricity supply.

Gas-fired power plants are associated with high efficiency rates and low emissions compared to traditional fuels. Combined Cycle Gas Turbines (CCGTs) are particularly efficient, utilising both gas and steam turbines to generate electricity, thereby maximising energy output while minimising environmental impact.

Decarbonising Power Generation

Innovative solutions exist within the gas industry to lower greenhouse gas emissions, such as power-to-gas technology, which converts surplus renewable electricity into hydrogen or synthetic methane for energy storage or use in power generation. Likewise biomethane can also be utilised in existing power generation installations.

CCS (Carbon Capture Storage) technologies offer emissions reductions by taking the greenhouse gases emitted in power generation and either storing them or using them for other purposes.

Eurogas advocates for the deployment of these technologies to align with climate goals, including their application in power generation. The European Union is exploring methods to enhance these technological advancements, as evident in its Industrial Carbon Management (ICM) Strategy, with the aim of scaling them up. Additionally, it aims to incentivise their growth through initiatives like the Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA), recognising their potential to contribute to decarbonising not only the gas sector but also power generation.