Nord Stream is a natural gas pipeline through the Baltic Sea. In late 2011, Line 1 of the twin pipeline system will begin contributing to the energy security of the European Union, helping it to meet its greenhouse gas reduction goals. When fully operational in late 2012, the two lines will supply 55 billion cubic metres (bcm) of Russian gas a year to the EU for at least 50 years.
This secure supply of gas through the Nord Stream Pipeline will help the EU to meet its targets of cutting CO2 emissions by 20 percent in 2020 compared with 1990 levels, because natural gas is a cleaner burning fossil fuel. Since renewables will be unable to meet the EU’s energy needs for some time, the use of natural gas is an essential bridge to a renewable energy era.
Nord Stream represents a lasting commitment in the EU-Russia energy partnership. The project has set new benchmarks for international teamwork and collaboration between partners and suppliers across Europe and Russia.