Report
05.02.2026
Gas

LNG Terminals: A New Role in the Framework of Decarbonisation

This report analyses how LNG terminals can adapt and evolve to support the European Union’s decarbonisation objectives, while continuing to ensure security of supply and well-functioning gas markets.
It examines how LNG infrastructure may move beyond its traditional role as an import and regasification facility and contribute to the energy transition through the integration of renewable and low-carbon gases and other decarbonisation solutions.

Key Findings

  • LNG terminals remain strategically important assets for Europe’s energy system, continuing to support security of supply, market integration and system flexibility, even as gas consumption declines over time.
  • LNG infrastructure can contribute to decarbonisation through several pathways, including the handling of bio-LNG and e-LNG, hydrogen and hydrogen carriers such as ammonia, as well as the use of terminal infrastructure for carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS).
  • Most ongoing and planned projects focus on ammonia import terminals with hydrogen cracking, bio-LNG imports via existing regasification terminals, and the repurposing of LNG infrastructure for CO₂ liquefaction and export.
  • The regulatory treatment of LNG terminal decarbonisation differs by technology. Bio-LNG and e-LNG fall under the existing LNG regulatory framework, with certification as the main differentiating factor, while hydrogen terminals are subject to negotiated third-party access under the Gas Decarbonisation Package.
  • Several barriers may affect terminal adaptation, including regulatory complexity and fragmentation across Member States, technological and infrastructure constraints, high investment costs, uncertain demand for low-carbon gases, permitting challenges and social acceptance issues.

 

This report does not constitute an interpretative or binding regulatory guidance from national regulatory authorities. Rather, it aims to provide an overall view of the evolving role of LNG terminals in Europe’s decarbonisation pathway and to support informed discussions among stakeholders.