天然气：为能源转型“架桥铺路”

Group 1 - Natural gas is recognized for its significant role in the green low-carbon transition, ensuring energy security and resilience while paving the way for renewable energy and emerging technologies [1][2] - Experts emphasize that natural gas will serve as a "key bridge" in energy transition, with its low carbon intensity and potential for growth compared to other fossil fuels [2][3] - The global LNG demand is projected to surge by 60% by 2040, primarily driven by the Asia-Pacific region, with 90% of LNG demand in Asia coming from China, Japan, South Korea, India, and Thailand [3][4] Group 2 - China's natural gas production is expected to reach 246.5 billion cubic meters in 2024, ranking fourth globally, with significant contributions from major gas fields [4][5] - The development of unconventional natural gas has made breakthroughs, with production exceeding 100 billion cubic meters [4] - China's natural gas demand is forecasted to grow from 422 billion cubic meters last year to 570 billion cubic meters by 2030, continuing to rise to approximately 620 billion cubic meters at peak [5][6] Group 3 - Despite the growth potential, challenges remain for the natural gas transition, including high dependence on foreign energy, the need for market price reforms, and competition from rapidly advancing renewable technologies [6][7] - The industrial sector's energy consumption from natural gas is currently only 10%, compared to nearly 40% for coal, indicating significant room for growth [7] - Experts suggest enhancing exploration and development technology, promoting digital transformation, and optimizing energy pricing mechanisms to improve natural gas market competitiveness [7][8] Group 4 - Diversifying energy supply, fostering technological cooperation, and regional collaboration are essential for building energy resilience [8][9] - Asia is expanding natural gas infrastructure to optimize and upgrade regional energy structures, with significant projects like the completion of the China-Russia East Route natural gas pipeline [9][10] - The increase in China's LNG terminal capacity is expected to have profound impacts on the Asian and global natural gas markets, solidifying Asia's dominant position and enhancing global LNG trade [10]