Energy in Ja the LNG way

Thanks to the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) and its partnership with New Fortress Energy, liquefied natural gas (LNG) is now here in Jamaica.

"The dream of fuel diversification, which has been long in coming, has finally been realised," the company said in a release to the media.

"The introduction of LNG to Jamaica marks a historic milestone, and will result in greater energy security and sustainability for our country," the JPS added.

LNG is a clear, colourless and non-toxic liquid, which forms when natural gas is cooled. The cooling process shrinks the gas, making it easier and safer to store and ship.

In its liquid state, it will not ignite, and so when it reaches its destination, it is converted into a gas at regasification plants. It is then piped to homes, businesses and industries where it is burnt for heat or to generate electricity.

LNG is the least corrosive fuel and provides companies with the opportunity to drive down their operating costs by reducing downtime, maintenance costs, manpower and spills.

CLEAN AND EFFICIENT

"Liquefied natural gas is a clean and efficient source of energy and proves to be very beneficial to the environment," the company said.

In comparison to diesel, typical emissions savings associated with natural gas are:

- Well-to-wheel (the production and distribution of the fuel) greenhouse gas reduction of between 11 per cent and 20 per cent;

- Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions reduced by 80 per cent; and particulate emissions reduced by 75 per cent.

- In addition, when used as a vehicle fuel, LNG engines run quieter than diesel engines.

Compared to propane, typical emissions savings associated with natural gas are:

• Greenhouse gas emissions reduced by 15 per cent;

- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) emissions reduced by up to 50 per cent; and

- Particulate emissions reduced by up to 10 per cent.

Unlike crude oil and crude-derived liquid fuels, LNG spills do not require any remediation of soil, groundwater or surface waters, because it evaporates immediately and dissipates quickly into the atmosphere.

LNG has been used for many years and is regarded to be very safe.

"Safe storage, safe transportation and safe usage are the mandated requirements for any fuel and LNG continues to demonstrate a long track record of safety in all these three areas," the JPS said.