[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]By: Evan Lotz
With various renewable energy options becoming increasingly prevalent, renewable natural gas (RNG) has emerged as another way for companies to cut back on their Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and become more sustainable.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
What is RNG?
Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is natural gas derived from organic waste material gathered from landfills, food waste facilities, agricultural digesters, and other animal and plant-based matter. These materials are collected, cleaned, conditioned, and then transformed into biogas. From there, the biogas is blended with natural gas for usage, all without the need for any operational changes.
RNG poses promise largely due to its availability. Unlike wind and solar – which are intermittent sources of energy – RNG is readily available and can be used and distributed as needed throughout the natural gas pipeline network. RNG has been able to secure substantial production levels over the past few years, due to the abundance of biogas resources, creating a steady supply level ready for usage around the clock.[/vc_column_text][vc_cta h2=”Environmental Benefits of RNG”]
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Reduction of GHG EmissionS:
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- While all types of natural gas emit the same amount of GHG emissions when combusted, Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) reduces methane from waste that would have otherwise been emitted into the atmosphere. GHG reductions like these showcase RNG as a lower carbon-emitting energy option when compared to natural gas. For every dekatherm of RNG injected into the natural gas pipeline network, one dekatherm of conventional natural gas is offset, reducing GHG emissions.
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Air Quality Improvement:
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- By displacing conventional gas with RNG, users can reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides, leading to better overall air quality. RNG contains very low levels of constituents (ethane, propane, butane, pentane or other trace hydrocarbons) because it is made up of methane.
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How is RNG Packaged by Suppliers?
As energy customers become interested in low-carbon alternatives to help achieve corporate sustainability goals and meet local and state requirements, energy suppliers have begun offering voluntary Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) programs. These contracts are similar to voluntary renewable electricity programs and allow customers to procure a specific amount of RNG by paying a premium on their natural gas bill. Some suppliers will package RNG with conventional natural gas as a “green-gas” option; a package that couples conventional natural gas with RNG. In these options, RNG makes up a small percentage of the natural gas being procured and is paired in conjunction with carbon offset credits.
As federal, state, and local governments continue to push for greener corporate practices, RNG is one of the many ways your company can take initiative to become more sustainable. [/vc_column_text][vc_cta h2=”Unsure what is the best energy solution for your company?” h2_font_container=”color:%23ee7722″ h2_google_fonts=”font_family:Basic%3Aregular|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” use_custom_fonts_h2=”true”]
Contact Evolution Energy Partners to help find a solution that fits your company’s goals and budget.
[/vc_cta][vc_separator][vc_column_text]Evan Lotz was a 2020 summer intern at Evolution Energy Partners. He is a sophomore at Lafayette College studying Economics and Finance. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]