Natural Gas
In the US the development of unconventional natural gas is still very important, causing a drop in gas prices, increasing exports through pipelines and developing new gas liquefaction plants to export Liquefied Natural Gas to other countries. Also, unconventional natural gas will spread to other countries.
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is growing as a way to transport gas across countries, mostly for long distances and to reduce energy dependence which, sometimes, is linked to pipeline transport.
In Spain, the security of supply is very high. Currently have 6 LNG regasification terminals and pipelines through Pyrenees and North Africa, plus the pipelines with Portugal.
It is also important to consider de contribution of natural gas to electric energy generation through combine cycle power facilities. Their performance is much better than coal power plants and allow to support the fluctuations that occur in the electricity generation with renewable energy sources to guarantee supply user support.
Natural gas is the fossil fuel that produces less carbon dioxide when burned which is very important to increase their production and consumption, considering greenhouse gases policies. Its main use is in the electric, industrial, commercial and domestic sectors. In the future, its use in automotive, hydrogen production and other applications will increase.
Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV)
Natural Gas Vehicle in both its compressed and liquid form, is the most efficient and sustainable fuel. It combines significant environmental benefits, through reduced emissions and lower noise levels and also economics.
Natural Gas Vehicle benefits
Natural Gas Vehicle is a real alternative that improves air quality in our cities, reducing nitrogen oxides emissions by more than 85% and particulate matter by almost 100%, main cause affecting human health, and globally, CO2 emissions up to 20%, main greenhouse gas. In addition, natural gas engines produce up to 50% less noise and vibration than diesel engines.
Beyond the environmental benefits, natural gas is a very competitive fuel from an economic point of view when compared with diesel and gasoline. They can achieve savings between 25% and 50% depending on the arrangement.
Natural Gas vehicle, both in its compressed and liquid form, stands as an effective alternative to mobility that meets the economic, environmental and acustic disadvantages of oil.
Furthermore, according to Spanish Association of Environmental Impact Assessment, conventional and unconventional natural gas reserves will last 250 years, so its long-term availability is guaranteed.
Natural Gas Vehicle Technologies
| Category | Fuel | Profits |
| Dedicated | Natural Gas | Specific design and behavior optimization. Minimum emissions. Increment load capacity. |
| Bi-fuel | Natural Gas or Gasoline | Refueling flexibility. |
| Dual-fuel | Natural Gas and Diesel (ignition assistance) | Typical transformations in distribution transport and long distance (heavy duty). |