Benefits of Liquefied Natural Gas
The modern world has created several alternative fuel types to the widely used carbon-based gasoline and diesel. With more focus on lowering pollution levels and reducing the carbon footprint, many have turned to natural gas. It is not uncommon to see signage on trucks and other vehicles, showing they are fueled by compressed natural gas (CNG). A newer trend in the world of alternative fuels is the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG). It is created when natural gas is cooled to the point it changes to a liquid.
Programs Encourage Change
California has implemented several laws and initiative programs to encourage the use of alternative fuels. This has required the state to develop policies, regulations, and incentives to promote change to fuels and vehicles that produce lower carbon emissions and particulates escaping the tailpipe. Several incentives offer rebates, grants, technical training, and help to build an infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles, including those run on LNG. It is no surprise that the number of private and public LNG fueling stations California exceeds that of all other states in the U.S.
Technology Reduces Cost
LNG is becoming more popular, in part, because of its affordability. Often, the price of natural gas is lower than the price of diesel fuel. Advancements in technology used in drilling have lowered the cost of natural gas. Less costly turbines are used to cool natural gas, and in its liquid form, it takes up much less space in fuel tanks. Along with the continued improvement in fuel efficiency, all of this combines to increase affordability.
Corporations Lead Development
The move to fueling trucks and other vehicles with LNG started with private corporations. Some well-known industry names, including Walmart, Waste Management, United Parcel Service, and others, use it to help power their fleets. Initially, most of the fueling stations were private, which hindered a wider acceptance of fuel because it was not accessible to smaller companies or the public. Through the work of laws and incentive programs, more public stations are now available. The change in focus from private to public use helps explain why the number of private and public fueling stations in California is nearly the same.
Attractive incentives are offered by the government to lower carbon emissions and particulates by using alternative fuels. Considering the incentives, affordability, and proven track record with major corporate players, LNG can be a viable alternative to carbon-based fuels.