Objective To achieve the strategic goals of “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality”, China is actively advancing the development of a new energy system with multi-energy integration. Oil and gas pipelines are crucial for ensuring the supply of traditional energy. It is essential to explore how to leverage their advantages of continuity, cost-effectiveness, safety, and environmental protection within this new energy framework.

Methods Starting from the evolving connotation of oil and gas pipelines, the role of these pipelines in the construction of the new energy system with multi-energy integration was comprehensively analyzed. First, the development policies related to China’s multi-energy integration and oil and gas pipelines were thoroughly reviewed. Second, the concept of the new energy system with multi-energy integration was systematically elaborated. By examining the evolution of the energy consumption structure, the development direction and significance of this new energy system were discussed. The influence and critical position of oil and gas pipelines in energy resource allocation were explored across four dimensions: optimal allocation of oil and gas resources, supply guarantee, the formation of a new oil and gas market pattern, and the construction of a comprehensive three-dimensional transportation system. Building on this, a review of the status of oil and gas pipeline construction since the early 2000s was conducted, and the concept of flexible, empowered development of these pipelines was interpreted across five aspects: new media, new processes, new management methods, new construction schemes, and new transportation systems. Finally, the key role of oil and gas pipelines in constructing the new energy system with multi-energy integration was outlined, highlighting their participation in emerging frameworks such as multi-network integration, multi-energy coordination, and multimodal transport.

Results Oil and gas pipelines remain a crucial focus of the Chinese government’s energy planning and management, significantly contributing to the development of the new energy system with multi-energy integration. They ensure large-scale, long-distance energy supply while enhancing the resilience and reliability of China’s energy storage and transportation network.

Conclusion Oil and gas pipelines have been, and will continue to be, a vital link in energy transportation, significantly contributing to economic and social development while ensuring national energy security. As development progresses, the role of oil and gas pipelines will expand, evolving toward diversified integration and coordinated development in the future.