Europe’s energy landscape is undergoing a dramatic shift, one increasingly reliant on Norwegian gas as geopolitical tensions and the phasing out of Russian supplies reshape the continent’s power sources. The reduction in Russian gas imports – roughly three-quarters since 2021, according to the European Council data – has left a void, and Norway is stepping in to fill it. This dependence, while, comes at a time when Europe is simultaneously striving for ambitious climate goals and grappling with global instability, including disruptions in key energy chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, which the International Energy Agency describes as “highly vulnerable.” The situation presents a complex paradox: the pursuit of green energy is, for now, inextricably linked to increased fossil fuel reliance.
The immediate catalyst for this renewed focus on gas is the decline of coal power across Western Europe. In 2025, the United Kingdom generated almost no electricity from coal, a milestone highlighted by energy analysts. This shift, coupled with the EU’s commitment to phasing out Russian gas by 2027, as finalized by the European Council earlier this year, has propelled gas to turn into Europe’s largest power source. Norway has solidified its position as the largest gas supplier to both the EU and the United Kingdom, according to Norwegian Petroleum data. However, recent disruptions, such as the halting of Qatari liquefied natural gas (LNG) production following drone attacks in March, as reported by Argus Media , underscore the fragility of alternative supply chains.
The Interplay of Renewables and Gas Demand
Europe’s long-term energy strategy centers on a transition to renewable sources like solar and wind power. However, the intermittent nature of these sources creates a critical need for a reliable backup. As more wind and solar capacity comes online, the demand for gas-fired power plants to fill the gaps when the sun isn’t shining and the wind isn’t blowing will only increase. According to Our World in Data, gas power increased by eight percent in the EU in 2025, even as renewable energy capacity expanded . This dynamic creates a challenging situation: achieving climate goals becomes more difficult while simultaneously increasing reliance on a fossil fuel.
The escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly those involving Donald Trump’s increasingly assertive stance in the Middle East, further complicate the picture. Trump’s recent rhetoric, including threats related to Iran’s energy infrastructure, as reported by Nettaavisen , highlights the growing importance of energy security. The current surge in gasoline prices serves as a stark reminder that reliable energy access is paramount, potentially overshadowing long-term environmental considerations. As one analyst put it, “Energy security is now trumping green visions.”
Norway’s Growing Responsibility
Currently, Norwegian gas barely covers the EU’s gas power needs, and the EU represents less than half of total European gas demand. The expectation is that demand will continue to rise. Alternatives to gas power, such as hydrogen, are currently too expensive and would exacerbate the already high energy costs facing European businesses and consumers. Europe Business Europe reports that energy costs are already “remarkably high” across the continent.
Battery storage is often touted as a solution, but a recent BloombergNEF report indicates that even with falling costs, battery parks in Germany with only four hours of storage capacity can deliver electricity at a relatively high price – approximately 110 øre per kilowatt-hour (kWh). While short-term storage can play a role in balancing the grid, gas-fired power plants remain essential for providing power during extended periods of low renewable energy output. The reality is that Europe will remain heavily reliant on Norwegian gas for the foreseeable future.
This dependence places a significant responsibility on Norway. The country is poised to become Europe’s most important energy partner in the coming decades. Critics argue that investing in increased Norwegian gas production is a bet against climate goals, as outlined in a report by the Climate Foundation . However, proponents contend that gas is crucial for maintaining a power system increasingly reliant on intermittent renewable energy sources.
The Cost of Alternatives
The search for alternatives continues, but each option presents its own challenges. While hydrogen is being explored, its current cost makes it an impractical solution. Similarly, while battery technology is improving, its limited storage capacity and high cost prevent it from fully replacing gas-fired power. The need for a reliable, dispatchable power source remains paramount, and for now, gas fulfills that role.
Looking ahead, the European Commission is scheduled to review its energy policy framework in late 2027, assessing progress towards renewable energy targets and evaluating the role of gas in the future energy mix. This review will be a critical moment for determining the long-term trajectory of Europe’s energy transition. The situation demands a pragmatic approach, acknowledging the immediate need for energy security while continuing to invest in the development of sustainable alternatives.
What are your thoughts on Europe’s energy future? Share your comments below and join the conversation.
Keep reading
