The global gas industry is committed to mitigating its environmental impact by accelerating efforts to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions throughout the entire value chain. Regarding decarbonisation, the industry is advancing and deploying carbon emission reduction technologies, such as CCS and CCUS, and aggressively targeting methane emission mitigation. The industry is also advancing technological innovations such as scaling-up zero-carbon and low-carbon gases such as hydrogen, biomethane, and e-methane.

As defined by the UN, “Sustainable development requires an integrated approach that takes into consideration environmental concerns along with economic development." SDG 13: Climate Action calls for integrating measures to prevent climate change within development frameworks.

Natural gas is an indispensable solution to address energy challenges and climate change. Integrating renewable energy and natural gas will result in a more resilient energy system. Maximising gas benefits ensures an affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy supply for all.

The influencing factors of geopolitical conflicts, climate change, and emerging AI alongside the traditional inputs of economic, cultural, and natural conditions are all part of what influences regional and global energy policy. These mechanisms effect the energy landscape by impacting supply-demand energy structure shifts and technological evolutions.

Governments, companies, and investors will encounter new challenges and opportunities. Participants in the energy industry need to adjust strategies to adapt to new patterns and market conditions. What specific approaches should be taken? How can gas companies balance returns, operational risks, and transformation pressures brought on by energy policies?

COP28 witnessed an unprecedented agreement on transitioning away from fossil fuels in the UAE Consensus. There is a growing urgency to accelerate energy transition and address global emissions consistent with government climate commitments and targets. The regional and market challenges and priorities vary across the globe, and multiple pathways are being developed. There is growing recognition that the transition must be one that balances the energy trilemma of security of supply, affordability, and the environment.

Should the focus be solely on developing renewable energy sources, or should it be an integrated approach that balances the use of all available energy sources and renewables?

This session will explore the critical challenges and opportunities involved in integrating renewable gases into distribution grids, focusing on their role in decarbonising energy systems. While hydrogen will take center stage, the discussion will also encompass biogas and synthetic gases, examining their potential contributions to a sustainable energy future. The session will also highlight innovative solutions and successful case studies demonstrating how renewable gases can be effectively incorporated downstream in the value chain.

The gas industry is continuously improving on its performance by applying best practices across the value chain. This session will focus on innovations in production, from fracturing to gas treatment, transmission and distribution that enable setting the highest standards whilst improving market performance.

Fossil fuels, especially natural gas will continue to play a key role in the global primary energy supply in the coming decades and the increased demand for natural gas will result in the rapid development and production of both conventional and unconventional gas sources, leading to a rise in global CO2 emissions. Rising CO2 emissions will in turn lead to significant environmental and climate change concerns. This session will examine some of the significant environmental and climate concerns, emission mitigation and control strategies and the significance of CCUS technologies. This session will also cover strategies and best practices for attracting capital flows to the industry in the midst of Net-Zero targets, geo-political uncertainty, environmental considerations and the anticipated demand growth in developing economies.

This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the current status, developments, challenges, and achievements in the field of Underground Gas Storage. This session will present a summary of existing storage facilities and their global distribution across continents and countries. Recent advancements, including the application of Python for modeling well performance, AI for predicting piping vibrations, and methodologies for assessing storage-related ground deformations will be shared. Additionally, the session will explore the integration of gas storage with enhanced oil recovery technologies and address methane emissions mitigation, presented from the perspective of a European storage operator.

This session explores the adaptation of existing natural gas networks to accommodate the transmission of new energy vectors, particularly hydrogen and hydrogen-natural gas blends. Key topics include strategies for repurposing current infrastructure, establishing readiness criteria, and proposing factory tests for new units and equipment. The discussion will also address the integration of the electricity and gas sectors, focusing on challenges arising from the growing share of intermittent renewable energy sources in power generation. These challenges include ensuring grid security, stability, reliability, and effective control.

As the energy transition accelerates and green electricity adoption surges, traditional natural gas markets face unprecedented challenges. This session will explore how natural gas and renewable gases can redefine their role within a transforming energy landscape. Focusing on innovative integration strategies, discussions will examine how clean gases—such as biomethane, e-methane, and hydrogen—can complement green electricity, heating, and cooling networks in the low-carbon energy mix of future cities. Topics will include fuel-gas solutions for decarbonation of commercial and domestic markets, the incorporation of clean gas mobility into urban planning, and advanced technologies like hybrid boilers, heat pumps (Hybrid, electric and gas), micro-cogeneration, heat storage, and sustainable cooling systems.

This session delves into the transformative potential of renewable gases and hydrogen in driving the energy transition and achieving a decarbonised economy. As critical components of the future energy mix, renewable gases and hydrogen offer innovative solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy security, and integrating renewable energy sources. The discussion will highlight their role in reshaping the gas industry, enabling sector coupling, and supporting net-zero targets.

Environmental policies play a pivotal role in shaping energy infrastructure development and influencing the dynamics of global gas demand and supply. The natural gas industry, with its capital-intensive nature, relies heavily on long-term forecasts to guide investment and operational decisions. However, evolving environmental policies and regional differences have led to significant variations in these forecasts and scenarios. This session will delve into the complex interplay between environmental policies and gas market dynamics, exploring how shifts in policy impact supply and demand projections and, conversely, how these projections influence policy-making.

The world is going through an energy transition that is reshaping our industry and LNG markets on an unprecedented scale. At the heart of this transformation lies a critical question: how do we balance decarbonisation efforts with the need for a reliable, affordable, and secure source of energy? in this context, LNG has emerged as a key bridge fuel. LNG offers a pathway to reduce emissions while enabling economic development and energy access. in addition to that, advances in technology, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS), are further enhancing LNG’s potential as a sustainable energy solution for the future. The session will showcase how LNG can remain a cornerstone of the energy transition, achieving sustainability goals, energy security, and economic growth. Other important aspects that will be discussed are the way LNG is exchanged in the international markets and the important role of communication in raising awareness to the wider public.

Natural gas plays a vital role in the global energy mix, but its position varies significantly across regions. in some areas, it is celebrated as a key enabler of decarbonisation, while in others, it faces challenges due to stringent climate goals. This session will explore best practices for communicating the value and potential of natural gas in diverse contexts around the world. Emphasizing the need for dynamic, active, and creative communication strategies, the discussion will highlight effective arguments, tools, and methods that resonate most in specific markets.

This session will delve into the critical role of low-carbon and green gases in driving the energy transition and achieving carbon neutrality. The financial challenges associated with scaling up these sustainable energy sources and exploring why market-based green certificates are essential for reaching net-zero goals will be discussed. The discussion will highlight how these certificates facilitate the efficient use of existing gas infrastructure, significantly reducing the costs of the energy transition. insights into the mechanisms behind green gas certification, its impact on fostering market confidence, and its potential to accelerate the integration of renewable gases into the energy mix will be shared.

This session will explore cutting-edge practices and technologies aimed at mitigating methane emissions within gas distribution systems, a critical step in reducing greenhouse gas impacts and supporting global decarbonisation goals. innovative detection and repair solutions, advanced monitoring systems, and predictive maintenance strategies are transforming emissions management will be presented. Additionally, the session will feature insights into the decarbonisation roadmaps of leading gas distribution system operators, showcasing their efforts to align with net-zero targets while maintaining operational efficiency and safety.

Given the high Global Warming Potential (GWP) of methane, emissions of methane are a threat to the license to operate for the gas industry. Fortunately, recent advancements in research, development and particularly innovation have provided our industry with the tools to effectively and efficiently reduce emissions. Moreover, methane emissions reduction also provides an opportunity for our industry, through the application of new innovations that turn previously unwanted methane into marketable products. This session covers recent advancements and will provide insight into the application of such technologies.

Differences in resource endowments, economic development stages, and social challenges significantly influence the global energy development landscape. Based on these differences, the pathways to addressing energy transition issues vary. Energy availability, accessibility, and affordability remain fundamental to societal progress.

What are the unique regional differences when it comes to gas development around the world?

As the energy transition accelerates, repurposing existing gas networks to transport green gases such as hydrogen and biomethane is becoming a global priority. This session will explore the technical and operational challenges of converting traditional gas infrastructure to accommodate green gases, whether through blending hydrogen with natural gas or delivering it in pure form. Insights will be shared from pioneering projects and case studies around the world, highlighting innovative solutions and lessons learned. Discussions will cover essential upgrades, safety standards, and regulatory frameworks necessary to support this transformation.

This session highlights the critical role of technology and innovation in enhancing supply resilience, optimising infrastructure, and addressing emerging challenges in the global gas sector. It unites topics on AI-powered solutions, advanced modeling, climate risk adaptation, and regional advancements, showcasing the importance of innovation in securing the future of gas markets.

Climate change, geopolitical crises, supply chain  disruptions and policy shifts are more likely than ever  to shake up international energy markets, threaten  energy security and accelerate the restructuring of  the global energy landscape. These challenges have  exposed current vulnerabilities and highlighted the  urgent need to build more resilient energy systems.

What strategies should policymakers and market  participants adopt to shape a more resilient energy  system?

Faced with meeting escalating energy demand while  also managing global emissions, countries are trying  to find a balance between energy security,  affordability, and sustainability. Whether it is  introducing new digital tools, improving efficiency  and storage, or researching the potential of fuel-  switching, economies at different stages of  development require different measures to achieve  any successful and lasting energy transition. What  can the gas industry do to adequately address the  Energy Trilemma?

According to the “14th Five-Year Plan for Developing a Modern Energy System” issued by China, in order to promote safer and more secure energy, China will further increase domestic oil and gas exploration and development and enhance oil and gas supply capabilities. The plan specifies for the annual natural gas output to reach over 230 billion cubic meters by 2025 while enhancing the capacity of natural gas storage and regulation by advancing the construction of underground gas storage facilities and LNG terminals. To expand the coverage area of the pipeline network, China will accelerate the construction of long-distance and regional natural gas pipelines.

It is predicted that natural gas consumption in China will reach 550 billion cubic meters in 2030, with peak consumption expected to occur in 2040 at about 650-700 billion cubic meters. Differences in resource reserves, economics, and infrastructure have led to varying growth potential and development characteristics in China’s regional gas industry.

What are the opportunities for the domestic development of China's gas industry? How can China more actively engage in transnational cooperation under multilateral mechanisms to contribute to the global gas industry?

Achieving global net-zero goals requires the collective effort of multiple parties. Cooperation between countries, industries, companies and organizations is key to addressing the challenge of methane emissions. Significant momentum in methane commitments has been achieved in the past through cooperative agreements, forming alliances, and launching initiatives. What collaborations or partnerships are needed to accelerate methane emission reduction in time to deliver on 2030 goals?

The growing demand for natural gas requires investment in new infrastructure and the maintainence of existing infrastructure. Additionally, the global gas industry is advancing the deployment of zero- and low-carbon gases such as hydrogen, renewable gas, and e-methane. This new energy landscape will require repurposing and reutilization of existing gas infrastructure.

Where should the focus and priorities for the advancement of infrastructure be to best prepare for future development?

Investment in clean energy solutions is ramping up as governments and businesses race to meet ambitious decarbonisation targets. Solutions include utilizing low-carbon clean energy and renewable energy, deploying innovative technologies to address the most challenging emission sectors’ emission reduction. Existing technologies, such as CCS, CCUS, CDR, and DAC for traditional fossil energy sources already contribute to achieving emission reductions. It is estimated that by the early 2030s, annual investment of 4.5 trillion USD per year is needed to accelerate deployment and construction across all clean energy technologies and infrastructure.

How can funding for large-scale development and utilisation of low and zero technologies be secured to achieve Net Zero?

The expansion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications across various fields has a profound impact on future society. The notable economic advantages and swift growth in AI applications reveal significant potential for innovation, efficiency, and profitability in the gas industry. AI optimizes supply chain management by providing insights into demand forecasting, inventory management, and logistics planning. Predictive analytics can anticipate demand fluctuations, allowing companies to adjust their supply chain operations accordingly. AI provides deep insights through advanced data analytics, supporting more informed decision-making across various stages of the gas value chain. From exploration to production and distribution, AI-driven insights help companies optimize their operations. Better decision-making leads to improved efficiency, and cost savings. Additionally, AI helps in identifying new opportunities and mitigating risks.

How quickly must companies adopt and adapt these technologies to stay competitive?

In recent years, global LNG markets have experienced rapid expansion, with growing importers and export production facilities coming online globaly. According to IEA forecasts, many LNG projects will come online in 2025, leading to unprecedented growth in global capacity. By 2030, the annual global LNG production capacity is expected to exceed 250bcm, equivalent to about 45% of the current total global supply. This significant increase in production capacity has reduced concerns about price, supply, and energy security. Given global natural gas demand growth but growing concerns about emissions, what is the outlook for investment in LNG projects?

Hydrogen may provide a low-carbon alternative to natural gas in the future. The technologies that can help this option materialise are mostly know, but are in various stages of technological advancement. Research, development and innovation are needed to bring them to technological and economical maturity. This session will provide insights into recent developments for a selected number of technologies across the value chain.

Hydrogen is widely regarded as one of the most promising clean energy sources of the 21st century, playing a crucial role in the energy transition. Recent years have seen remarkable advancements in hydrogen technology, cost reductions, and infrastructure development. However, large-scale hydrogen deployment is grappling with challenges. Technological breakthroughs are not yet sufficient to fully support industrial applications, economic competitiveness remains to be improved, and uneven infrastructure development continues to constrain the industry's growth potential. Advancing the hydrogen economy requires a combination of technological innovation, strategic planning, and coordinated efforts across policy frameworks, technological development, and market mechanisms. These elements are essential for ensuring its sustainable progress.

Moving forward, what are the opportunities and challenges for the future development of hydrogen energy? How can nations strengthen collaboration to accelerate progress in the hydrogen economy?

Currently, fossil fuels account for over 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which governments around the world are looking to reduce to achieve Net Zero goals between 2050 and 2070. In response to climate change, nations worldwide have introduced energy and climate policies, such as the EU's Fit for 55 and the US Inflation Reduction Act. With a growing global population and advancing urbanization, energy demand is increasing. Against growing global demand for accessible, affordable, and reliable energy sources, natural gas and the evolving zero and low-carbon gas will be critical to achieving emission reductions. Additionally, governments are increasing their focus on technologies such as CCS and CCU.

How do energy and climate policies better promote the green and low-carbon development of the energy industry?

The three main pricing mechanisms for natural gas commodities are gas-to-gas competition pricing, oil-linked pricing, and government-regulated pricing. No matter which pricing method a country or region adopts, market participants are inevitably subject to the impact of price fluctuations. Policy adjustments, political events, supply and demand dynamics, and other factors can cause significant volatility in natural gas prices. If prices suddenly escalate or decline, producers, consumers, and traders will encounter corresponding affordability and trading risks. Price fluctuations may also lead to insufficient market liquidity, supply shortages and low investor confidence.

What strategies should market participants adopt to cope with natural gas price fluctuations?

Most banks and other investors that provide financing for oil and gas projects will find their investments come with stricter conditions when assessing and monitoring the environmental and social impact of projects. Transition financing introduces funds into private investment projects to reduce current high greenhouse gas emissions and help all industries transition to a carbon-neutral and sustainable economy. Financial institutions must be able to accurately interpret international standards and methodologies for transition finance to effectively identify green energy projects. How can the capacity building of transition finance be enhanced to provide essential monetary support for the long-term development of the gas industry？

Europe has led the development of “natural gas” and “new gases” and has extensive experience in energy policy, the adaptation of new technology and operation management. Renewable energy development has gained traction and is becoming more prevalent in the region’s energy mix. What role will natural gas continue to play in the context of Europe’s energy transition?

By monitoring, analysing, optimising, and scheduling energy in real-time, the smart energy systems can achieve efficiency, as well as emissions reduction. By applying simulation and digital twin technologies, smart energies can efficiently coordinate between thermal power and clean electricity. This addresses the randomness and volatility issues in clean energy generation caused by environmental and meteorological factors, effectively improving the utilization efficiency of renewable energy and enhancing the autonomous regulation capability of the energy system.

What best practices, emerging digital and intelligent technologies in the smart energy sector are worth extensively promoting and applying widely?

“Decarbonisation” is crucial to the ongoing sustainable development of the natural gas industry. As vital parts of emission reduction solutions, CCS and CCU provide practical decarbonisation solutions for the traditional energy sector. They are particularly important to hard-to-abate industries and the production of hydrogen. Through repurposing captured carbon dioxide, CCUS can enhance the economic efficiency and sustainability of the energy industry. The potential for large-scale commercial deployment, accelerating the implementation and deployment of CCS and CCU technologies is being explored.

How can CCS and CCU technologies effectively play their important role in the current carbon reduction strategies of the natural gas industry?

Distributed Energy Resources (DER), or decentralized energy system, refers to a small-scale energy supply system that uses natural gas or other fuels to generate electricity, thermal and cold energy close to end-user consumption, such as Combined Cooling, Heat and Power (CCHP). Gas-fired distributed energy resources can provide power, heat and cold energy for residential, commercial, and industrial applications, enhancing energy efficiency, reliability, and flexibility. In an era of energy transition, the major development for gas-fired distributed energy resources lies in multi-energy complementation. For example, burning mixed hydrogen enables new and existing gas turbines to transition from fossil to low-carbon energy sources, which has important implications for the future gas turbine market. Gas-fired power generation energy systems can achieve the coordinated application of various energy sources more efficiently by integrating user information with cloud computing and analysis, and an intelligent operation and management system.

Under the model of multi-energy collaboration and intelligent coupling, what are the commercial potentials for gas-fired distributed energy?

As a capital-intensive, long-life asset sector, the energy industry requires ongoing significant financing for project development. As the energy transition continues from high-carbon to low-carbon emissions and ultimately to net-zero emissions, the industry will require access to significant financing.

What are the respective needs of consumers, governments, energy companies, and financial institutions to continue to invest and provide financing in the context of balancing energy transition and security?

This panel will explore cutting-edge technologies leveraging natural gas and renewable gases—such as biogas, biomethane, e-methane, hydrogen, and ammonia—as fuels or raw materials to drive decarbonisation in industrial processes and electricity generation. Innovative solutions and practical applications will be shared, which are transforming energy-intensive sectors, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining operational efficiency. Through real-world examples, the session will highlight how these advanced technologies are contributing to global GHG reduction goals and supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy. This discussion offers a forward-looking perspective on the role of gas-based innovations in achieving a cleaner, greener future.

E-methane, a synthetic gas produced using renewable electricity and captured CO2, represents a groundbreaking solution for decarbonising energy systems while leveraging existing gas infrastructure. This session will explore the latest innovations driving e-methane production, including advancements in methanation technologies, direct air capture (DAC), and electrolysis. Panelists will also discuss cutting-edge CO2 capture methods that enable the efficient production of e-methane at scale.

This session will bring the most recent outlook of using technologies of underground gas storage for bridging natural gas into the sustainable future together with challenges and achievements connected to storage of renewable gases. Models of demand for underground gas storage for Europe and China will be presented to show that natural gas storage will be still needed for decades to come. However, gas storage operators worldwide are not only counting on this persistent demand for flexibility. They are making tremendous efforts to be prepared for storage of renewable gases era. Recent outcomes from studying hydrogen and CO2 storage will also be covered.

This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the key findings and insights from the IGU Committees and Task Forces Triennium Work Report, offering a deep dive into the evolving dynamics of the global gas industry. Committees and task forces will share their critical takeaways, covering every segment of the gas value chain—from production and transportation to distribution and end-use. A unique perspective will be shared on the challenges, opportunities, and innovations shaping the sector over the past three years. The session will highlight key trends in technology, sustainability, market developments, and policy, while exploring the industry’s role in the energy transition. This session will offer actionable insights and strategic guidance for navigating the future of the gas industry.

This session will present the results of the annual IGU report on global wholesale gas price formation and global gas price convergence. Related issues including the trends in the pricing of spot and long-term contracts, LNG and pipeline gas, and the pricing of hydrogen and renewable gases will be further discussed.

This session explores the shifting landscape of gas pricing and market reform in the Asia-Pacific region, emphasizing the interplay between global trends and region-specific dynamics. The discussion will focus on critical themes such as price convergence, the evolution of long-term pricing mechanisms, and the push for market liberalization to foster competition and transparency. Special attention will be given to China’s ongoing reforms, which are reshaping regional energy markets, and the growing influence of the Japan-Korea Marker (JKM) as a benchmark for LNG pricing. insights will be provided into the opportunities and challenges facing stakeholders as they navigate these changes while striving for economic and environmental sustainability.

As the global gas industry undergoes a pivotal transformation, this session will explore a wide range of interconnected topics shaping its future. Key discussions will include workforce integration to support decarbonisation efforts, the development of resilient and adaptable infrastructure, and the evolution of regional gas markets. Additionally, the session will examine the shifting dynamics of LNG contracts, the role of carbon pricing in driving sustainability, and strategies for harmonizing energy security with flexibility and environmental commitments. The session will also emphasize the importance of balancing growth with the urgent need to meet climate targets, highlighting innovative approaches and collaborative solutions across the industry.

This session aims to spotlight innovative technological solutions driving substantial advancements in the implementation of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards within the gas sector. As the industry navigates increasing pressure to align with global sustainability goals, these solutions play a crucial role in optimizing resource management, reducing carbon footprints, and fostering social responsibility. The session will explore cutting-edge tools and strategies that empower companies to achieve ESG excellence, enhance transparency, and meet regulatory requirements.

Natural gas prices vary significantly across different regions, influenced by factors such as supply-demand dynamics, infrastructure, geopolitical events, and market policies. This session will explore these pricing differences through a series of case studies from around the world, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors that drive regional price fluctuations and will offers a deeper look at the complexities of global gas pricing and its implications for industry stakeholders.

In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, effective communication about gas requires innovative approaches and strategic thinking. Insights on crafting confident, persuasive messaging tailored to diverse audiences will be shared. Special attention will be given to the critical role of social media, targeted communication strategies for different stakeholder groups, and meaningful engagement with local communities. By adopting fresh, creative approaches, gas companies can enhance their public perception, build trust, and foster stronger connections. The session will discover how innovative communication techniques can transform how we share the value and potential of gas in the energy transition.

Due to its liquidity and diverse applications, liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a pivotal energy source. It also plays a vital role in curbing greenhouse gas emissions by replacing higher-carbon-emitting fuels and improving air quality. With its inherent flexibility and eco-friendly attributes, LNG holds strong potential across upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors.

However, the global LNG industry development is not without hurdles. Changing policies, environmental imperatives, varied socio-economic landscapes, and market volatility pose formidable challenges. Nevertheless, multinational cooperation and transactions facilitate market openness, creating opportunities for LNG industry development. The global LNG trade landscape is continually changing. What does the future hold for the continued growth of LNG?

This session will examine the ongoing digital transformation of the Exploration and Production Industry including - the impact of advanced analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI),  digitalization of processes aimed decreasing maintenance costs and increase productivity and efficiency in upstream operations, application of sub-surface imaging technologies and practices that measure and predict reservoir  characteristics and increase recovery rates, Geospatial analytics for increasing the efficiency of Gas operations, logistics, supply-chain and distribution networks and advances in sensors, remote control, automation and virtualization.

Pipeline and asset integrity is the core business for transmission system operators. Preventive activities have been improved by standards and best practice during the years, but digitalisation and AI are allowing to develop tailor-made strategies for each kind of threat, getting rapid feedbacks from the field, enabling the creation of data storage and training the machines. The session will discuss the use of several technologies supporting the preventive detection of possible risks for transmission networks, thanks to techniques using machine learning or digitalisation as well as best practices for repairing pipelines, assisted by digitalization.

With the increase of supply capacity and demand, LNG has become an important international commodity. Buyers now have a variety of index choices like Henry Hub, National Balancing Point (NBP), Title Transfer Facility (TTF), and offshore assessments in the Asia Pacific such as Japan Korea Marker (JKM), which has enabled various new LNG pricing methods. When asked, “What is the global price for natural gas?”, the short answer is, “There is no unified global price.” Analyzing the problems in the existing pricing mechanism and moving forward with innovative recommendations for a global LNG trading model is key to better managing supply and demand and reducing fluctuations. Establishing a transparent global benchmark and futures prices requires the adoption of industry-standard LNG contracts.

What are the key elements and requirements in establishing a global LNG trading model?

ESG standards aim to measure the performance of organisations or companies in environmental, social, and governance aspects. In recent years, countries have introduced multiple ESG policies that continuously improve regulatory and disclosure frameworks. In the gas industry, ESG regulations and policies not only encourage companies to adopt stricter social responsibility and corporate governance standards, but also guide them to actively participate in carbon neutrality and greenhouse gas reduction efforts. ESG regulations and policies promote the transition toward cleaner, more environmentally friendly, and more sustainable operational practices.

Given current ESG requirements, what strategic decisions and corresponding operational practices should gas companies adopt for continued growth?

Inspired by the Silk Road of ancient China, a network of trade routes that connected China to the world, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has fostered global collaboration across multiple sectors since 2013. As a focal point of BRI, the Belt and Road Energy Cooperation encourages the development and utilization of energy resources to improve energy accessibility, affordability and sustainability among countries along the route. The Belt and Road Energy Cooperation has achieved results in the oil and gas sector, including the establishment of bilateral and multilateral cooperation and the implementation of oil and gas pipeline construction projects.

What best practices have been implemented under the framework of the Belt and Road Energy Cooperation? How will all parties continue to promote common prosperity?

“Low carbon gases”, including hydrogen, ammonia, renewable gas, and synthetic methane, will play a pivotal role in fulfilling the emission reduction commitments of the gas industry. There have been numerous breakthroughs in the development, production and deployment of these gas sources, which are essential for advancing their large-scale application.

What policies are needed to promote the large-scale application of "new gases"?

The natural gas market in the Americas is facing unprecedented growth and changes with the rapidly developing export market. Natural gas resources in this region are among the most important in the global natural gas supply and consumption markets. This has a significant impact on global supply and demand and plays an important role in international markets. How can the Americas maintain a leading position in the global natural gas market?

Natural gas power generation has several advantages, including flexible start and stop, high load adjustment rate, wide adjustment range, and produces half the carbon emissions of coal. With the increased deployment of renewable energy in high proportions into the grid, electrical systems need natural gas power to ensure a stable and reliable supply. By replacing coal-fired power, natural gas power generation also helps lead the transition of the electrical system towards a cleaner and low-carbon future. Looking ahead, natural gas power generation will be key to establishing a resilient, secure and decarbonized system.

How can we maximize the benefits of natural gas power generation in power systems?

The physical properties of natural gas make it highly dependent on pipeline infrastructure. Due to the high interdependence across various segments of the natural gas industry chain, the operational model of infrastructure significantly impacts the scale and speed of natural gas market development. The operational rules for pipeline infrastructure, such as scheduling, balancing, third-party access, and information disclosure, as well as the pricing rules for transportation, are closely related to the development stage of the local natural gas market.

What are the characteristics of natural gas pipeline operation models in different countries and regions around the world?

Natural gas demand and consumption in the Asia-Pacific is an important driving force for global gas development. As a clean and efficient energy source, it plays a key role in meeting the increasing energy demand of regional countries. Besides Central Asia, the Middle East and Australia are rich in natural gas resources and are important to global energy markets. Oil and gas resources in the Asia-Pacific are not only crucial to local economic development, but also global energy security and price stability. Market participants are exploring more efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly methods for continued growth.

Given the energy consumption and production in the Asia-Pacific, how does potential growth facilitate the further development of the global natural gas market?

As natural gas and LNG regain recognition as key components of a sustainable global energy strategy, continuous technological innovation is driving their evolution. This session will showcase cutting-edge technologies that enhance the value of the LNG value chain by optimising efficiency, diversifying applications, and unlocking new demand.

LNG terminals are facilities that integrate the receiving, storage, regasification, and transshipment of liquefied natural gas. As the global LNG market enters a phase of growth, the number of LNG terminal projects under construction and in operation has increased significantly. In this context, optimising operating models and improving the integrated utilisation rate of terminal equipment and facilities is imperative to further expand the effectivity of LNG terminals. The development of LNG terminals will face challenges in the future such as refining business models, green transformation and upgrading, and key technological innovations.

What are the primary challenges for global LNG terminals?

Africa is the fastest-growing region in the world, with the youngest demographics, abundant natural gas resources, and a great potential for future development. This resource can play a vital role as an ideal choice in Africa’s energy needs, fueling economic development, enhancing the quality of life while addressing environmental concerns. Africa's exploration and production industry is rapidly developing and has become a crucial component of the global supply arena. What opportunities exist for African producers and operators in local and global markets?

The stable delivery of natural gas to consumers relies on transmission and distribution pipelines, gas storage facilities, LNG receiving terminals, and peak shaving infrastructure. Ensuring energy supply security and stable economic growth requires continuous investment in these infrastructures. Various forms of financial support are necessary for continued investment in gas infrastructure projects. Supports include long-term loans from multilateral development banks and international financial institutions, funding and tax incentives from governments, and equity investments or debt financing from private investors. Innovative financial instruments such as blended finance and sustainable bonds can also provide necessary funds for related projects.

What are the essential financial measures and means to support natural gas infrastructure development？

LNG shipbuilding and transportation are crucial components of the natural gas industry chain. With the rapid growth of the global LNG market, the number of newly built LNG carriers continues to rise, the transportation capacity is rapidly increasing, and the global shipping network is constantly improving. New low-carbon, efficient, and intelligent developments impose stricter requirements on operators in areas such as ship design and building, technology research and application, transport service solutions, and capacity resource allocation.

How can the global LNG shipping industry make low-carbon, efficient, and intelligent advancements?

In an era of digitalisation and technological innovation, the energy sector has unprecedented opportunities for the future. Through continuous exploration and application of advanced technologies like AI, it is more possible to establish intelligent, efficient, and sustainable energy systems.

How can digitalisation and technological innovation be utilised to achieve a sustainable future?

The concept of a digital twin involves creating a virtual replica of physical assets, processes, or systems. This digital approach allows for real-time monitoring and analysis, enabling data-driven decisions throughout the entire gas chain. By leveraging advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, and machine learning etc., companies can optimise operations, predict maintenance needs, and enhance overall efficiency. The digital twin provides a comprehensive view of the processes, facilitating better decision-making and improving performance. This innovative approach ensures that every aspect of the gas chain is managed with precision and insight, leading to significant operational benefits.

Digital transformation is revolutionizing the operation of gas distribution networks, enhancing efficiency, safety, and reliability. This session will delve into the implementation and application of advanced digital tools that enable the operation of smart gas grids. From real-time monitoring systems to predictive maintenance technologies and AI-driven analytics, the discussion will showcase how these innovations are optimizing grid performance and reducing operational risks. A particular emphasis will be placed on addressing cybersecurity challenges, ensuring that digital solutions not only improve efficiency but also safeguard critical infrastructure against emerging threats.

As the gas energy industry undergoes extensive digitalization, the reliance on data for efficient daily operations has made cybersecurity a critical factor for maintaining stability and resilience. This session will share insights into the current state of data security within the organizations and across the industry and delve into the challenges and risks associated with safeguarding sensitive information and operational assets. Additionally, the discussion will highlight actionable strategies and best practices to enhance data protection, strengthen organizational cybersecurity frameworks, and mitigate emerging threats.

This session will delve into the discussion of technology solutions, presenting case histories aimed at enhancing productivity and reducing operating costs in conventional, unconventional, and complex fields. Furthermore, the session will include case studies and pilot projects that address complex technology challenges designed to unlock access to significant gas reserves, such as the extraction of Natural Gas hydrates, implementing novel, environmentally sensitive carbon sequestration, and solving some of the difficult problems that have challenged the industry for several decades.

As global energy markets evolve, LNG continues to play a critical role in meeting energy demand while supporting the transition to a low-carbon future. This session will explore the shifting dynamics of LNG supply and demand, driven by factors such as geopolitical developments, regional energy policies, and the growing focus on sustainability. The key trends shaping the LNG market and  the challenges of balancing long-term contracts with spot market flexibility will be discussed.

This session marks the highly anticipated release of the IGU 2025 World LNG Report, offering a detailed analysis of the latest trends and developments shaping the global LNG market. Key findings from the report will be presented, providing critical insights into supply and demand dynamics, infrastructure developments, regional market shifts, and the role of LNG in the energy transition. industry experts will also discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead, including market volatility, geopolitical influences, and sustainability imperatives.

This session marks the highly anticipated release of the IGU 2025 World LNG Report, offering a detailed analysis of the latest trends and developments shaping the global LNG market.  Key findings from the report will be presented, providing critical insights into supply and demand dynamics, infrastructure developments, regional market shifts, and the role of LNG in the energy transition.  industry experts will also discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead, including market volatility, geopolitical influences, and sustainability imperatives.

This session focuses on the critical role of detecting and mitigating methane emissions in achieving global climate goals and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has a significant impact on climate change, making its reduction a priority for the energy sector. The session will delve into advanced detection technologies, innovative mitigation strategies, and best practices that industries are adopting to address this pressing issue. insights into policy frameworks, collaborative efforts, and the integration of cutting-edge tools to improve monitoring and minimize emissions across the value chain will be shared.

In recent years, energy security has become a critical concern, highlighting disparities between markets that enjoy robust supply stability and those facing significant challenges. This session will explore the factors contributing to these varied outcomes, examining the underlying causes and key lessons learned from different regions and scenarios. infrastructure resilience, market dynamics, and policy frameworks on energy security will be also discussed. Additionally, the session will highlight successful strategies and innovations that have strengthened supply reliability in certain markets.

As the global gas industry undergoes a pivotal transformation, this session will explore a wide range of interconnected topics shaping its future. Key discussions will include workforce integration to support decarbonisation efforts, the development of resilient and adaptable infrastructure, and the evolution of regional gas markets. Additionally, the session will examine the shifting dynamics of LNG contracts, the role of carbon pricing in driving sustainability, and strategies for harmonizing energy security with flexibility and environmental commitments. The session will also emphasize the importance of balancing growth with the urgent need to meet climate targets, highlighting innovative approaches and collaborative solutions across the industry.

The International Gas Union (IGU) plays a pivotal role in representing a broad spectrum of stakeholders within the gas industry. As the sector navigates significant political, economic, and climate-related risks—particularly in Europe—effective communication has become more critical than ever. This session will explore best practices for internal and external communication strategies that align with the evolving landscape of the gas industry. It will discuss how a modern global organization can leverage communication as a powerful tool to strengthen its position and enhance its relationships with partners, customers, and the public.

This panel will explore the transformative role of high-efficiency and innovative technologies in decarbonising both commercial and domestic energy markets, as well as advancing clean mobility solutions. With a focus on energy efficiency programs implemented by gas utilities, the session will highlight how these programs are evolving to meet the challenges of a low-carbon future. Topics including new technologies and solutions driving energy savings, reducing emissions, and enhancing sustainability across residential, commercial, and transport sectors will be discussed. This session provides a forward-looking perspective on how gas utilities can leverage innovation to lead the decarbonisation of key sectors.

Natural gas is the cleanest and lowest-carbon fossil fuel. The utilization of natural gas has advantages such as abundant resource reserves, well-developed infrastructure, convenient transportation and supply, and flexible utilization methods. Achieving climate goals and securing a reliable and affordable energy supply are equally imperative while considering diverse global economic development stages and energy demands. The role of natural gas in ensuring global energy security, addressing energy poverty and promoting economic development is invaluable. Additionally, natural gas is the ideal partner for renewable energy, enhancing the stability and reliability of renewable energy sources.

As the lowest-carbon fossil fuel, what role will natural gas play in new energy systems?

Carbon pricing is important for reaching Net Zero carbon emissions reduction goals. Currently, carbon taxes and Emissions Trading Systems (ETS) are two main methods for pricing carbon. As these two methods mature, they work closely together to significantly influence the decarbonisation of the energy sector. Many governments are pursuing a comprehensive pricing mechanism.

What strategies should energy companies proactively adopt to gain a competitive edge under carbon pricing regulations?

Due to differences in the supply of natural gas and growing demand, cooperation between importers and exporters can maximize economic and energy benefits and promote energy security and market stability. To promote a balance between supply and demand and enable the sustainable development of the natural gas industry, where and with whom should importing and exporting countries deepen their cooperation?

Technological innovations and digital management allow gas distribution companies to eliminate or mitigate operational risks. As demand for natural gas continues to grow in urban areas, necessary measures need to be taken to ensure that transmission and distribution systems are safe and stable to avoid endangering lives and property.

How does technological innovation enable the safe distribution of urban gas?

Natural gas plays a central role in the global economy with approximately one-fifth of the world’s energy used today coming from natural gas. Consensus is growing that natural gas will continue to fill a key role in a secure global energy future. Producers continue to strive for better environmental performance and greater transparency on impacts while working to ensure natural gas remains reliable and affordable for consumers. Various factors, including energy and environmental policy, climate science, carbon management, energy economics, cybersecurity, information technology, and artificial intelligence, are influencing the natural gas industry to varying degrees.

How will natural gas play a role in future energy systems, and what exciting opportunities can be expected for those wishing to have a career in natural gas-supplied future energy systems?