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PNGRB pushes for natural gas as a cleaner, greener energy solution for India
As the world’s fastest-growing emerging economy aims to transform into a manufacturing behemoth while adopting clean energy sources, natural gas plays a critical role as the best transition fuel, asserts the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB).
“India’s approach is aligned with global efforts to combat climate change through cleaner energy transitions. Various studies worldwide underscore the benefits of natural gas in reducing carbon and particulate matter emissions,” emphasises A Ramana Kumar, Member, PNGRB.
The shift to piped natural gas (PNG), compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) has been successful in several countries, leading to improved urban air quality. India’s initiatives serve as a model for similar economies looking to balance energy needs with environmental protection, he told businessline.
PNGRB’s work on infrastructure creation and regulatory measures accelerates the shift towards natural gas. It also facilitates India’s goal of achieving a 15 per cent share of natural gas in its energy mix by 2030.
Developing and expanding city gas distribution (CGD) networks is a critical intervention by the downstream regulator to curb air pollution, particularly in densely populated urban clusters.
The supply chain transporting LPG cylinders to households adds to vehicular pollution and traffic congestion, which is negligible for PNG. Around 5,42,960 Inch-km of pipelines have been laid to enhance natural gas delivery to homes, transport, commercial and industrial sectors.
PNGRB’s efforts to expand CGD networks and promote PNG are showing results. India now has around 13.6 million domestic PNG connections, which is expected to increase to 126.3 million by 2032.
Promoting CNG in cities has helped reduce air pollution by encouraging the transport sector to switch to cleaner fuels. As of September 2024, around 7,000 CNG stations had been established nationwide, and the number is expected to reach 25,000 by 2032.
The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has identified 131 cities as Non-attainment cities (NAC). NCAP aims to reduce PM10 concentrations by 20-30 per cent in these cities by FY25, with an extended target of up to 40 per cent by FY26, underscoring the need for cleaner fuels.
Here, PNGRB is working in close coordination with the Environment Ministry to share available and upcoming Natural Gas infrastructure in these cities and devise various incentives for industries to convert to natural gas from polluting fuels.
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