North Field gas to meet growing global need for cleaner fuels

Cleaner fuels such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) are becoming increasingly important for an energy-deficit world, which also faces environmental challenges and concerns of energy security.
In this context Qatar’s supply of another 65mn tonnes to the global market from the North Field expansion will go a long way in meeting the world’s growing need for cleaner fuels and reliable supplies.
Additional gas from the North Field will be available by 2026; all contracts have been awarded, HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi said at a ministerial session at the Qatar Economic Forum in Doha recently.
The expansion project will increase Qatar’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) production capacity from 77mn tonnes per year (mtpy) to 126 mtpy, through the North Field East (NFE) and North Field South (NFS) expansion projects, with first LNG expected by 2026.
Al-Kaabi said: “There is going to be a shortage in oil and gas in future, predominantly due to the push on (energy) transition. It is really aggressive without studying it. If you look at economic and environment stability, these are not mutually exclusive... we have to have both.”
The minister also emphasised the need to have a “mix” of all energy resources and said: “You need a mix of all energy sources and people need to realise that you need oil, gas and renewables. People talk about renewables as if it’s a fix-all.”
One of the primary reasons for the shift towards cleaner fuels is the growing concern over environmental pollution and climate change.
Liquefied natural gas is considered a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuels like coal and oil. When compared to coal, LNG produces significantly lower emissions of greenhouse gases, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Using LNG as a fuel can help reduce air pollution and mitigate the impact of climate change.
Many countries rely heavily on imports of fossil fuels to meet their energy demands. By diversifying their energy mix and incorporating cleaner fuels like LNG, countries can reduce their dependence on a single energy source or a few oil-producing regions.
This helps enhance energy security and reduces the vulnerability to supply disruptions or geopolitical tensions associated with oil.
Liquefied natural gas is often considered a transition fuel towards a more sustainable energy future. While renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are rapidly expanding, they still face challenges in terms of intermittency and energy storage.
It can be used as a complementary fuel to renewable energy sources, providing a reliable and flexible source of power. It can act as a bridge fuel until renewable technologies become more widespread and economically viable.
LNG production and infrastructure development can have positive economic impacts. It creates job opportunities, attracts investments, and fosters economic growth in regions involved in LNG production, liquefaction, and transportation.
These are some of the key reasons why the world is increasingly recognising the need for cleaner fuels like LNG.
Obviously, the transition to cleaner energy sources is essential to mitigate climate change, improve air quality, enhance energy security, and foster sustainable economic development.