A prospective study on the future of gas in Wallonia

Mission objectives

To explore, on behalf of the CWaPE, possible pathways for a gradual phase-out of fossil fuels in Wallonia by 2050, in line with European decarbonisation targets.

Achievements and impact

• Integrated energy system modelling (TIMES model), supplemented by spatial analysis (mapping) and a tool for calculating distribution costs.
• Assessment of five main scenarios, ranging from 0 to 18 TWh of gas consumption in 2050, each broken down into three sub-scenarios (renovation rate, infrastructure depreciation level, connection rate).
• Analysis of the economic impacts for network operators and users, including the costs of maintaining, decommissioning or extending the network.
• Exploration of the prospects for replacing fossil gas with renewable gases (notably biomethane) or other energy carriers such as electricity.