Regional focus

E. Gerden, Contributing Writer Annual demand for natural gas in the EU is pegged at approximately 380 Bm3y–450 Bm3y. A portion of this demand is met by regional production within the EU. However, the European energy system is beset by challenges that are impacting EU gas supply. Gas production in The Netherlands is falling faster than expected, for example. According to data from the country’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, natural gas output declined by approximately 9% in 2016. Also, the massive Rough gas storage facility in the UK, which usually covers consumption peaks, has seen interrupted operation due to technological problems. Finally, the French government intends to close up to fi