For Germany

There will be a huge rise in demand for imports in the coming years. Germany will play the role of distributor because of its geographical location: the most important transport routes for natural gas cross here, at the heart of Europe. This represents an opportunity for Ger-man consumers and for Germany’s economic development – and NEL will help make the most of this opportunity.  

From Europe’s perspective, about three quarters of the world’s natural gas reserves can be reached within a radius of 4,000 kilometers via pipeline. And with Europe’s own resources becoming increasingly scarce, it is important to make use of the opportunities arising from this geographical proximity. Against the backdrop of international competition for future natural gas supplies, a project has been launched that will secure Germany’s supply as well: the construction of the NEL and OPAL pipelines.

Right at the source

The NEL and OPAL pipelines will provide a direct link between Europe and the major nat-ural gas reserves in Siberia via the Nord Stream pipeline. Up to 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year – enough to supply more than 20 million households – will arrive in Lubmin near Greifswald ready for onward distribution. German households will also benefit thanks to NEL – in future WINGAS GmbH will receive deliveries of up to nine billion cubic meters of natural gas per year via Nord Stream over a period of 25 years. E.ON Ruhrgas AG will receive four billion cubic meters per year over the same time period.

Natural gas – energy for the future

Germany has committed itself to reducing its CO2 emissions in international agreements. The great challenge this poses for businesses can only be mastered – without compro-mising their desire for healthy growth – if we make more use of environmentally friendly sources of energy.

The benefits in detail

• The infrastructure required will be expanded in an efficient and environmentally sound manner

• Transport by pipeline is, above all, very safe

• Hardly any nitrogen oxide or particulate matter is released when natural gas is burned and less CO2 is emitted compared to other fossil fuels.

Natural gas also has an important role to play in the transition to renewable energies: since the generation of electricity from wind and solar power is not constant, highly-flexible gas-fired power plants that can be started up quickly are needed to cover peak demand and to provide power when the sun is not shining or the wind is not blowing. Thus, natural gas enables the transition to an increased use of renewable energies.