Natural gas utilities take steps to further reduce emissions

A concerted effort by America’s natural gas utilities to upgrade and modernise the country’s pipeline network to enhance safety has contributed to a declining trend in emissions from natural gas distribution systems. Now, the Board of Directors of the American Gas Association (AGA) has approved a set of voluntary guidelines that may lead to further emissions reductions. The report will serve as a resource for AGA members to assist in evaluating potential options for distribution systems.

“Natural gas utilities continue to drive down emissions by replacing and upgrading infrastructure,” said AGA Chairman Gregg Kantor. “These guidelines represent lessons learned in our industry for effective ways to reduce emissions from pipeline systems as part of our deep commitment to help ensure that natural gas continues to be safe for our customers and our environment.”

The guidelines list several measures that can help modernise distribution systems and reduce emissions, including pipe replacement, installing low or no bleed valves in place of high bleed pneumatic devices; enhancing damage prevention programmes; measures for reducing emissions during repair or replacement projects; directed inspection and maintenance programmes; and pipeline repair and lining techniques. Utilities can employ strategies that are appropriate for their pipeline network and geographic area in consultation with their local regulators.

Kantor continued: “We work closely with regulators to help ensure we are delivering safe and reliable energy at affordable prices. These voluntary guidelines will allow us to work on reducing emissions while continuing the consistent service our customers have come to depend on.”

Read the AGA’s Guidelines for Reducing Natural Gas Emissions here.

Adapted from press release by Rosalie Starling

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/12062014/natural_gas_utilities_take_steps_to_further_reduce_emissions_505/