For the perfection of the market mechanism of natural gas, it is essential to reform the operational mechanism of natural gas pipeline network and remove the “network bottleneck” caused by the integrated operation of the natural gas pipeline network operating enterprises. In light of the experience gained in the reform on operational mechanism of natural gas pipeline network in the European Union, separation of natural gas undertakings is the first step to achieve the independent operation of pipeline network, in which the split of ownership is the most thorough approach. Accordingly, it is feasible for China to spin-off conduit assets of the integrated operating enterprises and set up a national pipeline corporation to provide uniform pipeline facility service. As for detailed rules of the national pipeline corporation, mixed ownership should be established first. On that basis, the corporation should reserve golden shares to provide veto power for the state in certain affairs. Meanwhile, to lawfully and orderly promote the fair opening of pipeline facilities, it is necessary to set the market access conditions of pipeline facilities scientifically, optimize the market access system of natural gas pipelines networks as well as focus on the sustained information disclosure and improve the regime of information disclosure on pipeline network of natural gas. It is also necessary to enhance the expertise and coordination of supervision and refine the market surveillance mechanism of natural gas.
CAO Fan.
Independence of Pipeline Network: Research on the Legal Mechanism of the Market-oriented Reform on Natural Gas Pipeline Network in China. Jinan Journal. 2022, 44(2): 109-121