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Natural gases used in the EU

Natural gas comes in many different forms, all with distinct and changing qualities.

As a result, different types of natural gas are used in the EU, rather than one type of gas with a specific quality. This can cause problems in an integrated energy market, as suppliers in one country risk being refused gas by transmission system operators in another because the gas is not of the right quality.

This difference in gas qualities can also affect whether household and industrial products are used safely.
By introducing quality standards in gas, the EU is helping to ensure a safe and secure supply of gas that can be used across Europe.

The EU is collaborating with the European Association for the rationalization of energy exchanges to carry out the works.​
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Harmonisation of gas used in the EU

The European Commission charged the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) to draw up harmonised standards for gas quality in the EU. This mandate consisted of analysing the effects of changes in gas quality on consumer appliances which now fall under the  Regulation (EU) 2016/426. This work was led by a consortium called GasQual, managed by CEN. The consortium has now dissolved.

European Association for the Streamlining of Energy Exchange (EASEE-gas)

EASEE-gas was set up in 2002 in order to develop and promote business practices to simplify and streamline gas transfer and trading across Europe. Check out the website to read annual reports, harmonization solutions, how operators can collaborate, etc.