OAFP 7060 - What does future hold for gas?

Natural gas is a fossil fuel that currently accounts for 25% of global energy needs, with significant regional disparities. A global market has gradually developed thanks to international gas pipeline networks and ships transporting liquefied gas. The gas trade has forged strong links between producer and consumer countries, and is at the heart of geopolitical issues, as illustrated by the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, in which gas is a key issue.

The European Union has decided to significantly reduce its gas consumption in order to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and end its dependence on Russia. Other regions have not made the same choice: demand for gas continues to grow in North America and Asia. Furthermore, the development of renewable energies requires the development of flexible solutions, for which there are few alternatives to gas.

What does the future hold for gas? That is the question this course will address. To consider the evolution of the gas sector, we must first understand the technical, economic and political issues surrounding gas, and how dependent contemporary societies are on gas in industry, heating and electricity production. Alternatives to fossil gas, such as biomethane and hydrogen, are being considered, but do they have the potential to meet demand? New flexibility requirements are raising the question of critical mass for supply chains. We also need to look to the future to consider the infrastructure that may or may not be necessary.

These issues have political and institutional implications. Public authorities must support manufacturers and consumers in making the right choices. For regulators, it is a question of finding a balance between decommissioning infrastructure and making new investments to ensure that facilities can guarantee long-term energy security.

These issues will be illustrated using the example of the European Union. The regulatory angle will be used to illustrate the practical implications of the changes underway.

No prerequisite

Each student will get three marks, for the binomial presentation, for the associated paper and the final exam. Each mark will have the same weight. The originality of reflections and accuracy of information presented will be particularly valued. The exam is an online two hour dissertation.

No mandatory readings but suggested publications or information sources. Students are invited to get some complementary information through personal investigations. During the class, the main work will consist in preparing a presentation on a topic chosen among a list provided by the teacher as well as the associated paper. The final exam will particularly promote personal reflection and readings.