Natural Gas Transitions in Energy Systems

Natural gas has emerged as a pivotal element in the global pursuit of decarbonised energy systems, acting as an interim “bridge” between high-carbon fossil fuels and renewable energy technologies. Its lower carbon intensity relative to coal has encouraged widespread substitution in power generation, offering immediate reductions in CO₂ emissions. However, the role of natural gas is multifaceted: while it can enhance system flexibility, support renewables integration and stimulate innovations in gas-based infrastructure, there are concerns over methane leakage, potential delays in the deployment of zero-carbon technologies and the risk of stranded assets. Technological advances in combined cycle gas turbines and carbon capture applications have improved the efficiency and environmental profile of gas power stations, yet economic and policy frameworks remain critical to ensure that investments in gas complement, rather than compete with, renewable energy expansion. Geopolitical factors, such as regional supply-security dynamics and pricing volatility, further influence national and subnational energy strategies. Overall, research highlights that a well‐governed natural gas transition can contribute to short‐term emissions abatement while driving longer‐term system innovation—but realising these benefits depends on robust regulation, integrated planning and parallel support for clean energy alternatives.

Research from Nature Portfolio

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Natural Gas Transitions in Energy Systems publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in natural gas transitions in energy systems across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Transition fuel: A relatively lower-carbon energy source used to replace high-carbon fuels during the shift to renewable systems.

Reserves-to-production ratio: The estimated number of years that proven energy reserves will last at current production rates.

Methane leakage: Unintentional emissions of methane during extraction, transport or use of natural gas, which can offset its climate benefits.

Combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT): A power plant configuration that uses both gas and steam turbines to achieve higher thermal efficiency.

Stranded asset: An investment in fossil energy infrastructure that loses economic value due to regulatory, market or technological changes.

References

1. Examining the effect of global energy reserves to production ratio on carbon emission in the USA. Energy Strategy Reviews (2024).
2. The Cost of Using Gas as a Transition Fuel in the Transition to Low-Carbon Energy: The Case Study of Poland and Selected European Countries. Energies (2023).
3. Research into the Spatiotemporal Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Technological Innovation in China’s Natural Gas Industry from the Perspective of Energy Transition. Sustainability (2023).