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UK could face gas supply shock by 2030s without action
An official gas security assessment warns a high stress scenario could leave homes and businesses without gas within the next decade, prompting consideration of direct financial support for ageing infrastructure.
Britain faces a risk of gas shortages in the 2030s, even as it expands clean energy sources, according to an official assessment of the country’s gas security reported by the Guardian Business.
The government’s analysis warns that a high stress scenario could result in homes and businesses running out of gas within the next decade. It says most consultation respondents indicated the gas sector may not be prepared for low probability, high impact events, as North Sea reserves continue to deplete.
To reduce the risk, ministers are considering measures that could include direct financial support for owners of gas storage facilities and gas pipeline operators, aimed at keeping upgrades and maintenance economically viable over coming decades.
The government linked the renewed focus on gas security to upcoming decisions on the future of two controversial North Sea oil and gasfield proposals at the Rosebank and Jackdaw fields, while acknowledging the transition away from fossil fuels will not happen overnight, and gas will still be important for decades.