UK faces potential gas shortage in 2030s unless unprecedented measures taken
An official assessment warns that Britain could run out of gas in the 2030s, prompting ministers to consider extraordinary support for ageing infrastructure.
A recent government assessment warns that the United Kingdom may face a gas supply shortfall in the 2030s if no extraordinary steps are taken to protect ageing infrastructure. A consultation revealed that a "high stress scenario" could cause households and firms to run out of gas within the next ten years, especially as North Sea production continues to decline. The majority of industry respondents indicated they would not invest for low-probability, high-impact events, prompting officials to consider direct financial support for gas storage and pipeline owners.
Energy minister Michael Shanks said such intervention would be historic and emphasized the ongoing role of gas while the country expands clean energy. The review also highlighted that the North Sea currently supplies almost half of domestic gas, with Norway and imports filling the rest, and warned of possible shortages during cold spells or if European storage is low.
Why it matters
A gas shortage would affect heating, industry and power supply for millions of UK residents.
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