The great gas investment divide

Gas’ part in the transition to a climate-neutral energy system is more controversial than for any other major source of primary energy

There is a developing consensus in the debate on how humankind should approach decarbonising energy supplies to avert dangerous climate change about the appropriate roles for most major primary energy sources. For example, a phase-out of coal—as the most carbon-intensive of fuels—garners widespread agreement, and the list of countries that have committed to this goal grows by the month. Conversely, renewables such as wind and solar power are viewed increasingly positively because they emit no greenhouse gases (GHGs) during operation and their costs continue to fall. Gas stands out as an exception to this general rule, dividing experts, making life uncomfortable for investors, and threatening