LNG as a bridge fuel in the transition to renewable energy: A global perspective
The global energy sector is at a pivotal moment in history. As governments and industries face mounting pressure to reduce their carbon footprints and mitigate the devastating effects of climate change, the transition to renewable energy has become an essential objective.
However, this transition is fraught with challenges. Renewable sources such as wind and solar are not only intermittent, but the global infrastructure required to support them is still in development. In this context, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) has emerged as a key “bridge fuel,” providing a cleaner alternative to more polluting fossil fuels like coal and oil, while facilitating the transition to a fully renewable energy future.
A comprehensive new study published in the World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, authored by Gloria Siwe Usiagu, Oladipupo Olugbenga Adekoya, Chinelo Emilia Okoli, Cosmas Dominic Daudu, Ifeanyi Onyedika Ekemezie, and Olushola Babatunde Ayorinde, presents a global perspective on LNG’s role in this vital energy transition. The paper explores the environmental, economic, and geopolitical factors that position LNG as a crucial player in the energy mix of today—and the immediate future.
As climate change accelerates, the push for renewable energy has become urgent. Yet, the study notes that the global energy landscape is not ready for a full-scale shift to renewables, especially in regions with limited access to energy storage solutions and renewable infrastructure. LNG, however, offers a pragmatic solution in the interim. According to Olushola Babatunde Ayorinde, an independent researcher and co-author of the paper, “LNG, with its relatively lower carbon emissions compared to coal and oil, is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between current energy systems and a fully renewable energy future.” He emphasizes that LNG can play a vital role in reducing the environmental impact of fossil fuel consumption, while allowing time for renewable energy systems to scale up.
The paper’s authors focus on LNG’s advantages over other fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, which are responsible for significant environmental damage. “LNG can provide a stable and reliable backup when renewable energy production is low, ensuring energy security and grid stability,” Ayorinde explains. This role is especially crucial as intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar struggle to meet demand during periods of low production.
Although LNG is recognized as a cleaner alternative, Ayorinde stresses that it is not without its environmental impacts. The study discusses the carbon emissions associated with the entire LNG lifecycle, from extraction to transportation and combustion. “While LNG provides a cleaner alternative to coal and oil, its full environmental impact cannot be overlooked. The extraction process, including fracking, can lead to methane leakage, a potent greenhouse gas,” he points out. This emphasizes the need for continuous improvement in LNG production technologies to reduce its overall carbon footprint.
At the same time, LNG’s efficiency in reducing carbon emissions is undeniable. The paper outlines how LNG emits about 50% less carbon dioxide than coal when used in power generation, making it a significant player in the short-term battle against climate change. “By replacing coal and oil with LNG, we significantly lower carbon emissions while providing the necessary backup for intermittent renewable energy,” Ayorinde says, acknowledging that LNG can be a pivotal part of the energy transition while renewable systems mature.
The economic considerations are also central to LNG’s role in the energy transition. Ayorinde highlights the cost competitiveness of LNG, particularly when compared to other fossil fuels. “LNG offers a more affordable and sustainable option for countries looking to reduce their carbon emissions while maintaining a reliable energy supply,” he asserts. The market dynamics driving LNG demand are further fueled by its ability to complement renewable energy sources, providing a cleaner solution in places where energy needs are rising but renewable energy infrastructure is still underdeveloped.
The paper also discusses the growing global supply of LNG, with major exporting nations such as the United States, Qatar, and Australia increasing their production capacity. “The expansion of global LNG production capacity has positioned LNG as a key player in the international energy market,” Ayorinde explains, noting that key producers are investing heavily in LNG technologies to meet increasing global demand.
LNG’s role in the global energy transition is shaped by regional and policy dynamics. In Europe and Asia-Pacific, countries have increasingly adopted LNG as part of their energy strategies. Governments are setting policies to reduce reliance on coal, and LNG is seen as a cleaner alternative that can help meet carbon reduction targets. “LNG has become a strategic fuel in Europe and Asia, where governments are making concerted efforts to decarbonize their energy sectors while maintaining energy security,” Ayorinde explains.
Furthermore, in countries like the United States and Canada, LNG is being utilized not just for domestic energy consumption, but also as an export commodity. “In North America, LNG has become a key component of energy exports, supporting the global energy transition while enhancing energy security,” Ayorinde observes. He points out that the availability of low-cost natural gas in these regions is enabling widespread LNG adoption, contributing to cleaner energy consumption globally.
The paper also delves into the geopolitical implications of LNG, emphasizing that its role in global trade extends beyond just energy consumption. Ayorinde points out the strategic importance of LNG in global trade relations. “LNG is playing an increasingly important role in shifting global energy dynamics, with trade agreements and geopolitical events shaping its supply and demand,” he explains.
However, the paper also highlights the risks associated with the growing reliance on LNG, particularly in terms of geopolitical tensions and market fluctuations. “LNG’s global supply chain is subject to geopolitical uncertainties, which can lead to disruptions in supply and price volatility. This is an important consideration for countries relying on LNG for their energy security,” Ayorinde cautions.
In conclusion, the study affirms LNG’s importance as a bridge fuel during the transition to a fully renewable energy future. While LNG is not the final solution to climate change, its role as a cleaner alternative to coal and oil makes it an essential component of the global energy mix in the short-to-medium term. “LNG offers a pragmatic and cleaner solution during this crucial period of energy transition,” Ayorinde concludes. “While it is a vital part of today’s energy mix, we must continue to prioritize renewable energy development to eventually phase out fossil fuels entirely.”
The paper serves as a call to action for governments, energy companies, and industry stakeholders to leverage LNG as a transitional fuel, while also accelerating the development of truly sustainable energy sources for the future.
