UK Secures Energy Future with Landmark £20 Billion Gas Deal with Norway
Key Ideas
- UK natural gas futures stable at 80 pence per therm, aligned with European market trends amid ample supply from Norway and consistent LNG shipments.
- Centrica signs £20 billion deal with Equinor to supply 5 bcm of gas annually until 2035, enhancing UK energy security as imports met majority of demand in 2024.
- Agreement includes provision for hydrogen substitution, aligning with UK's decarbonization goals and investing in a sustainable energy future.
- Equinor, despite halting blue hydrogen plans in Norway, maintains commitment to hydrogen projects in Europe, illustrating dedication to clean energy initiatives.
UK natural gas futures hovered around 80 pence per therm, mirroring the European gas benchmark, fueled by robust supply from Norway and steady LNG deliveries. European gas storage stood at over 60% capacity, with Norwegian gas flows stabilizing and minimal maintenance anticipated in July. In a significant development, Centrica inked a monumental £20 billion agreement with Equinor from Norway, securing the supply of 5 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually to the UK until 2035. This deal plays a crucial role in bolstering the UK's energy security, especially since imports fulfilled nearly two-thirds of the country's demand in 2024, with Norway alone contributing over half. Noteworthy is the inclusion of a provision in the agreement for potential substitution of hydrogen in the future, thereby supporting the UK's efforts towards decarbonization and sustainable energy practices. Centrica's CEO, Chris O'Shea, emphasized the deal as an investment in the UK's future. Despite shelving blue hydrogen plans in Norway, Equinor remains dedicated to advancing hydrogen projects across Europe, including in the UK, showcasing a firm commitment to clean energy transition and innovation.
Topics
Blue Hydrogen
Energy Security
Investment
Decarbonization
European Market
Supply Chain
Carbon Footprint
Natural Gas
Energy Imports
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