The German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety has commissioned Prognos AG and Ecologic Institute with a project assessing the potential of low-carbon energy options for improving European gas security of supply. In particular, the project will assess the potential for energy efficiency and renewable energy to contribute to European energy security in the context of European dependence on gas imports. It is the objective of this project is to assess the interdependencies between climate protection measures and gas infrastructure planning in Europe. As part of the project Ecologic Institute is conducting a process analysis of gas infrastructure planning in Europe and 6 selected Member States. Ecologic Institute will also conduct an analysis of political, social, economic and technical risks related to the application of low-carbon alternatives to gas infrastructure development, including energy efficiency and renewable energy.

In the coming years important decisions related to energy will have to be taken on a European level. Among these will be the question of the future role of fossil fuels. Natural gas with its relatively low carbon factor might be needed for a longer time as a bridge technology. However, in the long run gas demand needs to be phased out.

In 2016, an international workshop will present and discuss the project findings.