For Germany
There will be a huge rise in demand for imports in the coming years and Germany will play the role of distributor because of its geographical location: the most important transport routes for natural gas cross at the heart of Europe. This represents an opportunity for German consumers and for Germany’s economic development – and the OPAL will help make the most of this opportunity.
From Europe’s perspective, about three quarters of the world’s natural gas reserves can be reached within a radius of 4,000 kilometres via pipeline. And with Europe’s own resources becoming increasingly scarce, it is important to make use of the opportunities arising from this geographical proximity. Against the backdrop of international competition for future natural gas supplies, a project has been launched that will secure Germany’s supply as well: the construction of the OPAL and NEL pipelines.
Right at the source
The OPAL and NEL pipelines will provide a direct link between Europe and the major natural gas reserves in Siberia via the Nord Stream pipeline. Up to 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year – enough to supply more than 20 million households – will arrive in Lubmin near Greifswald ready for onward distribution. German households will also benefit thanks to the OPAL – in future WINGAS GmbH will receive deliveries of up to nine billion cubic meters of natural gas per year via Nord Stream over a period of 25 years. E.ON Ruhrgas AG will receive four billion cubic meters per year over the same time period.
Natural gas – energy for the future
Germany has committed itself in international agreements to reducing its CO2 emissions. This poses a great challenge for businesses. It will only be possible to master this challenge without compromising their desire for healthy growth if we make more use of environmentally friendly sources of energy.
The benefits in detail
- The infrastructure required will be expanded in an efficient and environmentally sound manner
- One of the key advantages of transport by pipeline is that it is very safe
- Hardly any nitrogen oxide or particulate matter is released when natural gas is burned and less CO2 is emitted compared to other fossil fuels.
Natural gas also has an important role to play in the transition to renewable energies: since the generation of electricity from wind and solar power is not constant, highly-flexible gas-fired power plants that can be started up quickly are needed to cover peak demand and to provide power when the sun is not shining or the wind is not blowing. Thus, natural gas paves the way for an increased use of renewable energies.
