Foreword The Global Gas Report is a consolidated, fact-based reference documenton the state of the global Gas markets – which reliably supply more thana quarter of the world’s primary energy needs. The report’s findings showstrong rising energy demand across all regions, but with future demand andsupply trajectories subject to considerable volatility. Amidst the geopolitical,economic and regulatory uncertainties, it is critical that investment in Gasand its infrastructure continues to enable Gas’ crucial role in reducing globalemissions and driving affordable, sustainable development. Progress is alsobeing made in decarbonising the natural gas value chain via greater efficiencyand electrification of key processes. However, more supportive and pragmaticpolicies are urgently needed to support accelerated adoption and scale-upof low and zero-carbon Gas technologies. Alongside the picture of risingoverall energy demand, power systems are expanding and becoming morecomplex to manage as electrification spreads into different parts of the globaleconomy. This year’s report therefore spotlights Gas’ vital role in supportingintermittent renewables to ensure a secure and reliable electricity supply topower human progress and global growth. ANDREA STEGHERPresident,International Gas Union(IGU) In an ever-evolving global landscape, natural gas remains essential forenergy security and continues to play a pivotal role in the pathway towardsa low-emission system. As energy markets remain unsettled, solid andaffordable modulation options remain the key to guarantee stability to thesystem when renewables are not available – that is what energy integration isall about. As the main destination market, Europe – and therefore Italy – needsflexible and redundant infrastructures, as well as a diversification of vectorsand sources to cope with unpredictable scenarios. Therefore, we believe itis essential to continue investing in gas infrastructure to achieve long-termgoals; in this regard, developing biomethane and carbon capture & storagecan contribute to achieving decarbonisation goals by leveraging existingassets, and help mitigate market volatility, in the interest of businesses andhouseholds. AGOSTINO SCORNAJENCHICEO,Snam Natural gas demand continued to grow in 2024, with further growth expectedthis year, underscoring the increasingly important role of natural gas inmeeting global energy needs. Power systems are evolving and becomingmore complex, driven by increasing electrification and the integration ofintermittent renewables sources, while extreme seasonal heatwaves andthunderstorms are becoming more frequent. These trends place additionalstrain on grid supply. In this context, natural gas serves as a flexible andreliable balancing source, ensuring energy security and system stabilityamid fluctuations in renewable output. This year’s report highlightsopportunities for decarbonising the natural gas value chain through efficiencyimprovements and the adoption of low- and zero-carbon technologies. Italso emphasises the critical role the gas industry can play in supporting asustainable and affordable energy transition. We are pleased and honouredto support IGU and Snam in presenting the latest developments in the naturalgas markets, as well as the future direction of the gas industry. JARAND RYSTADCEO,Rystad Energy Executive Summary shortfalls, though this could be mitigated by the ~270Bcm of approved or under construction liquefactioncapacity in the pipeline to be commissioned by 2030.If current trends continue, demand growth will likelyoutpace scenario pathways proposed by leadinginstitutions, exceeding projections for 2030 by asmuch as 8-90 EJ. Considering the observed trendsof rising demand while planning the optimal energymix can help ensure greater supply readiness for thefuture. Natural gas remains essential to energy securityin an ever-evolving energy system. It is continuallydemonstrating its ability to deliver reliable energysupply with lower emissions than oil and coal, whilealso serving as a stabilising force in future energymixes amid rising electrification, growing variablerenewables penetration and increasing uncertaintiessuch as extreme weather events and technologicalbreakthroughs. 2024 served as a transitional year for the globalnatural gas and LNG market, marked by limitedmomentum and tight fundamentals – a contrast tothe extreme volatility of recent years. In 2024, globalnatural gas demand rose to 4,122 billion cubic metres(Bcm), an increase of 78 Bcm (1.9%) from 2023, drivenby sustained growth in Asia and North America. Powergeneration remained the dominant end-use sector,further supported by extreme summer heatwavesthat boosted cooling demand. Supply also expanded,increasing by 65 Bcm to reach 4,090 Bcm. LNG tradegrew for the 11th consecutive year, reaching 555Bcm, with the United States, Qatar, and Australiamaintaining their positions as leading LNG exporters.Entering 2025, the market has shown re