New gases enable the energy transition

Gas will play a crucial role in the future energy system in the form of renewable and decarbonized hydrogen and its derivatives, such as synthetic gas and biogas. The potential of these new gases for decarbonising society is significant: they are essential for a climate-neutral and resilient energy system and can make a vital contribution to securing Germany's status as an industrial hub. The interplay between green electricity and these new gases is crucial for the successful transformation of the energy system, offering the most effective solutions across all sectors.

Integrating Green Power Generation and New Gases

By 2045, all sectors are expected to achieve zero CO₂ emissions. However, the path to climate neutrality cannot be fully mapped out. To build an energy system that is not only climate-neutral but also resilient, new gases are indispensable alongside green power generation. Only by combining these elements can we create a truly climate-neutral and resilient energy system. Hydrogen and biogas are already available today and will continue to be in the future. These green gases offer flexible solutions for heating, electricity generation, process heat, and as fuels.

Transformation

Hydrogen as an Energy Carrier

Hydrogen will play a crucial role in our future energy system and is considered a key element for a successful energy transition. It can be stored, is clean, and is available regardless of the season. Hydrogen is highly versatile and can be used in industry and commerce, for electricity and heat generation, and in mobility. It enables large-scale storage and transport of renewable energies. Therefore, it is a central component on the path to Germany's climate neutrality. The existing gas infrastructure can be further developed and adapted to transport hydrogen instead of natural gas to consumers.

Renewable Biogas

Biogas is a reliable and controllable renewable energy source that is produced year-round from regional, renewable feedstocks. These include not only manure and green waste but also energy crops that can be replenished. The renewable gas is generated in so-called digesters, where the organic materials undergo fermentation. The resulting gas is captured and can be utilised. This process helps us reduce dependency on energy imports and provides a price-stable product.

Synthetic Gas

The energy system of the future will be based on renewable energies. However, electricity has a challenge: it cannot yet be stored in the required quantities or for extended periods. Synthetic gas offers a solution to this problem. Using Power-to-Gas technology, excess electricity can be converted into gases. Through electrolysis, water is split into its components, oxygen and hydrogen, using green electricity. The subsequent methanation process then produces synthetic gas.

New Gases Are Essential

New gases play a crucial role in ensuring energy security and achieving decarbonisation. Their use in industry, transport, and for electricity and heat supply is sometimes indispensable. In industry, the deployment of new gases is vital, as full electrification of all processes is not feasible. Similarly, in the transport sector, new gases can contribute to the transition to sustainable transport, particularly where electrification is either impractical or uneconomical. Additionally, they secure electricity and heat supply through their storage capabilities and flexible applications.

Gas in the Energy Mix

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