GAS MARKET: FORECAST AND CHALLENGE

摘要

It is now largely accepted that natural gas will play a major and growing role in supplying future world primary energy needs. This energy source is gradually taking up a better position worldwide in an increasing number of consuming countries. Indeed, its intrinsic qualities combined with an abundance of resources give it priority in energy demand scenarios, especially in the power generation sector.The unequal distribution of gas resources on the earth and the gradual remoteness of the most recent discoveries will lead obviously to a tremendous increase in the international gas trade. The setting up of an adequate production and transportation infrastructure will bring huge investments to make gas available to most consuming markets and also the less endowed with gas resources.Therefore, it will be necessary not only to finance those projects, but also to develop these reserves at the least expensive cost in order to preserve gas competitiveness with other energy sources. Technological progress, and also new industrial approaches have to be strengthened and encouraged. Furthermore, a closer cooperation between all partners will open greater prospects for this energy promised to a bright future.