Portugal Shifts LNG Imports to U.S. and Nigeria in Energy Independence Drive
Portugal has announced plans to increase its liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from the United States and Nigeria as part of a strategic move to phase out its minimal reliance on Russian energy supplies. The update was revealed by Portugal’s Environment Minister, Maria da Graca Carvalho, during the World Economic Forum in Davos, according to Reuters.
In 2024, Portugal imported 49,141 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of natural gas, with LNG comprising 96% of this total, data from REN, the country’s electricity and gas grid operator, shows. Nigeria emerged as Portugal’s top supplier, providing 51% of its LNG, followed by the U.S. at 40%. Russian imports, on the other hand, dwindled to just 4.4%, a sharp decline from 15% in 2021.
This shift aligns with a wider European push to reduce dependency on Russian energy following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. While the European Union has restricted imports of Russian oil and pipeline gas, LNG transported by sea remains exempt from sanctions.
“Portugal is now practically independent of Russian gas,” Minister Carvalho stated, reaffirming the country’s commitment to further reduce Russian imports by ramping up purchases from Nigeria and the U.S.
Carvalho also urged for increased collaboration within the European Union to bolster energy security, stressing the challenges faced by the Iberian Peninsula, which remains isolated due to limited energy interconnections with France. She noted the importance of enhancing infrastructure to connect Iberia with the rest of Europe, as reported by ECO, an economic news platform.
Portugal’s strategy highlights a growing global pivot towards diversifying energy sources amidst escalating geopolitical tensions, reinforcing its position as a leader in energy independence within the European bloc.
