Germany should enhance and maintain its liquefied natural gas (LNG) capability in order to preserve energy diversity and ensure supply security, according to a senior official from the German economy ministry. Three floating storage and reception units (FSRUs) located at the Wilhelmshaven, Brunsbuettel, and Lubmin terminals were established last year to supplement gas deliveries from other European countries after Russia suspended its gas exports due to political tensions surrounding the conflict in Ukraine.
The continued use and full utilization of these facilities has been questioned due to declining gas prices and lower demand, which has raised concerns about the viability of LNG investments in a carbon-free future. However, the official emphasized the importance of the terminals as an integral component of Germany’s diversified energy strategy. He also acknowledged that two of the FSRUs currently have unfilled capacity, indicating the need for further development in this area.
Germany’s energy strategy includes a focus on energy efficiency, renewable expansion, diversification, and the development of hydrogen economies. Although natural gas is expected to play a transitional role in electricity generation as Germany shifts away from coal and nuclear power, it remains a crucial part of the country’s energy mix.
Once the LNG terminals are no longer required, they can be repurposed and exported to other destinations, potentially resulting in a profit. Germany’s emphasis on energy diversity and supply security highlights the importance of LNG as a complementary energy source alongside other renewables.
Sources:
– Reuters (No URL Provided)