Launch of the UfM Gas Platform working group (videoconference) on the role of gas for the transportation sector in the Mediterranean area
The Secretariat of the UfM Gas Platform launched on 23 June 2020 through videoconference the first working group (WG) within the UfM Gas Platform 2020 activities. Dedicated to the role of gas for the transportation sector in the Mediterranean region, this task is divided into two sub groups/studies; Task 3.1 on the benefits, challenges, and opportunities of LNG in maritime transport in the Mediterranean region, and Task 3.2 on reduction of carbon intensity in the transportation sector in the Mediterranean urban areas.
During the meeting, participants discussed and fixed the content of these tasks, defined the activities, and also had a brainstorming on the role of gas for the transportation sector related matters. Gas as a fuel for the transportation sector has a long but uneven history. Leveraging on the success stories of methane for cars (CNG and NGV) and the opportunities offered nowadays by LNG as a fuel for the heavy road vehicle and ship markets, the WG will examine a deeper use of natural gas in the sector. It will also analyse challenges, benefits and economic opportunities. WG members may meet again when the first drafts are ready to discuss and plan next steps in view of their finalization. The plan is to have final draft reports to be circulated to WG Members for review by the end of 2020.
The meeting gathered more than 40 delegates from all backgrounds, ministries, institutions and industry, from both shores of the Mediterranean. They all contributed to vibrant discussions (under the Chatham House Rule) and participated to the success of the event.
