Therese Robinson

The Netherlands will rely on increasing liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports instead of counting on domestic gas production from the Groningen field to help replace Russian imports.   

Russia’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports remained strong in March and surpassed year-ago levels despite efforts by some buyers to curb purchases from the pariah state.

European countries without adequate liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure are scrambling to secure floating storage and regasification units (FSRU) to import more of the super-chilled fuel amid a broader effort to cut reliance on Russian energy supplies.

It remains unclear how the European Union (EU) would jointly buy and store natural gas and hydrogen under a plan aimed at reducing dependence on Russian energy imports. 

Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s pledge for Germany to become independent from Russian energy imports “as soon as possible” is said to be supported by ambitious plans, including starting liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports by 2023. 

Despite Western sanctions against Russia, the country may become closer energy partners  with India after the two governments recently discussed the potential for further oil and gas deals.

Europe’s plan to cut its dependence on Russian natural gas and find new sources to displace its largest supplier is seen facing significant obstacles. 

Russian natural gas could increasingly find a home in China as the countries have strengthened ties in a way that could undermine some of the West’s economic sanctions and lessen the blow of Europe’s move away from imports.. 

Russian natural gas pipeline flows to Europe remain at some of their strongest levels in months despite fighting in Ukraine, but the market is on edge about any potential disruption in deliveries given how crucial imports are for the continent, which has helped to send natural gas prices soaring.

Germany has revived its liquefied natural gas (LNG) import plans to reduce dependency on Russian natural gas, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.