naturalgasfueled

Naturalgasfueled refers to devices, engines, and systems that use natural gas as their primary energy source. Natural gas, primarily methane, is delivered as pipeline gas and can be stored and dispensed as compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG) for higher energy density and different operating requirements.

In transportation, natural gas is used in dedicated or bi-fuel spark-ignition engines designed for CNG or LNG. In stationary power and combined heat and power (CHP) applications, natural gas fuels gas turbines or internal combustion engines to generate electricity and heat.

Advantages include lower emissions of particulates and sulfur compounds, and often lower CO2 emissions per unit of energy compared with gasoline or diesel. It also leverages existing natural gas infrastructure and can enhance energy security where gas resources are abundant. The technology is implemented in various fleets, including urban buses, refuse trucks, and some light-duty vehicles, as well as in remote power generation.

Challenges include methane leakage along the supply chain, higher upfront costs for vehicles and fueling equipment, and the lower energy density of CNG relative to liquid fuels, which can require larger or heavier fuel storage and, for LNG, cryogenic handling. Availability of fueling infrastructure varies by region and can constrain deployment.

Safety and regulation cover high-pressure storage, leak detection, and standards for vehicle fuel systems, fueling stations, and emissions controls.