The Future of Liquified Natural Gas in a Decarbonising World

This book analyses the role of liquified natural gas in a decarbonising world and presents the most significant energy-transition options and implications for the liquified natural gas industry.

Major investments and developments in technology have been made in recent years in an attempt to meet global demand, but energy systems require radical new pathways to meet climate goals in line with the Paris Agreement. This book explores the role of liquified natural gas in the context of the global energy transition, arguing that liquified natural gas has a role to play in terms of resources, the gas market, energy-transition dynamics/regime status, and geopolitical powers. Using a bespoke meta-framework grounded in institutional theory and case studies, the book examines how institutional, political, and resource characteristics affect liquified natural gas use. The book also explores implications for liquified natural gas exporters in the context of the energy transition and analyses the characteristics of liquified natural gas compared with pipeline gas. The multiple case study approach examines the role of natural gas in Japan, the UK, and China, three countries in different stages of the energy transition, to determine potential pathways for exporters. Utilising a multi-method procedure for data collection, including data analysis, in-depth interviews, and direct observations, the book concludes with findings on the potential role of liquified natural gas in various future stages of the energy transition.

Written by an industry expert, this book will be of value to students, researchers, and academics interested in energy studies, decarbonisation studies, and environmental studies more broadly.