Spatial aspects of natural gas supply diversification in the context of energy security in the countries of the European Union

This article examines the issue of diversification of natural gas supplies to European Union countries through a range of indicators. The aim of the study was to conduct a geographical analysis of existing natural gas sources and to identify potential new supply directions. The study’s spatial scope was limited to the European Union, a supranational organisation that currently faces challenges in the field of energy security. The study covered the years after the end of the Cold War, a period of significant changes in the geography of both natural gas supplies and the methods of gas transportation. The analysis used data from international organizations specialising in natural gas policy, including IEA (International Energy Agency), Global Energy Monitor and IOGP Europe. Other data came from government documents, laws and agreements of the European Commission. The article provides a spatial analysis of resources, reserves, production, import, and storage of natural gas. Particular attention is given to the impact of the new geopolitical circumstances after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, including the functioning of the main gas pipelines, new interconnectors and LNG terminals serving the needs of the EU energy sector. Apart from certain countries like Hungary and Slovenia, it has been concluded that the adapted policies have significantly broadened the pool of suppliers. The European Union has effectively addressed significant energy security concerns in the face of the current geopolitical unpredictability.