Renewable Energy Transition Could Cut EU Gas Demand by a Quarter

The European Union's renewable energy transition is gaining momentum as it becomes a cornerstone of its energy security strategy. According to new research by IEEFA, accelerating clean energy deployment could reduce EU gas demand by 25% by 2030, saving twice the amount of liquefied natural gas (LNG) Europe could potentially import from Qatar.

The report notes that renewable energy has evolved into a strategic asset that strengthens Europe's energy independence, economic competitiveness, and geopolitical resilience. This is especially crucial given the EU's increased reliance on imported natural gas since 2021, with total gas demand declining by 20% between 2021 and 2024.

Renewable technologies such as heat pumps, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, and wind power have already reduced EU gas demand. In 2024, these technologies together saved approximately 8.8 billion cubic meters of gas, equivalent to nearly two-thirds of all LNG imported from Qatar during the year.

To meet its long-term energy security objectives, the European Union must maintain its current pace of renewable deployment. IEEFA estimates that the EU must install at least 4 million heat pumps every year, 75 GW of new solar PV capacity annually, and 22 GW of new wind capacity each year over the next five years to reduce gas demand by 25% by 2030.