Natural gas, particularly LNG, is the necessary  complement to renewables for a robust global energy supply and to support climate  mitigation. It is reliable, available, and affordable. It is flexible and has a low carbon footprint which we continue to work to reduce. So, while some see natural gas as a transition fuel, we believe it is a destination fuel

With current LNG production at 77 MTPA, Qatar aims to increase to 126 MTPA before 2030.

H.E. Al-Thani began by quickly summarizing Qatar’s take on the energy transition. He believes the ultimate vision of carbon-free energy has distracted the world from a realistic transition plan that balances climate, energy security, and economic development. He said this has created a vulnerability to letting coal back on the agenda—citing a 2% increase in power generation from coal in 2022—something many would have considered unthinkable given our climate ambitions.

At the same time, although many people promote renewables as the solution against climate change and air pollution, he says they are, realistically, some years away from playing a meaningful role in the new energy mix.

He firmly positioned natural gas as a more pragmatic and significant part of the solution.

“Natural gas, particularly LNG, is the necessary complement to renewables for a robust global energy supply and to support climate mitigation. It is reliable, it is available, it is affordable, and it is flexible. It has a low carbon footprint which we continue to work to reduce.”

Results of Qatargas' efforts to reduce carbon footprint

Many projects have been completed focused on recovering CO2, flaring minimization, and reduction of gas turbine NOx emissions while enhancing production efficiencies.

• Greenhouse gas emissions are down 12% compared to 2013, mainly through CO2 injection and 70% less flaring 
• 85% reduction in NOx intensity
• Recycling over 60% of wastewater and 50% of waste

Expansion project targets

• An additional 8% reduction in GHG emissions by increasing CO₂ injection capacity to 9.5 MTPA and reducing flaring by another 6%
• Near zero methane emissions by 2030, although methane is less than 1% of greenhouse gases profile
• Committed to minimizing CO₂ risk to communities.
• Zero liquid discharge to sea
• Increased waste recycling

Qatargas is working with the state for various circular-economy initiatives and green supply frameworks. Plans are also underway to achieve international Maritime Organization greenhouse gas targets, both for its existing LNG vessels and planned shipping expansion project.

H.E. Al-Thani closed by saying “The world has not yet overcome the challenges that reached such criticality in 2022, and requires the collaboration of the  stakeholders gathered here today to pave a credible and sustainable path for development of the world’s energy supply.”