What is Piped Natural Gas (PNG)? Benefits, Uses & Comparison with LPG
1. What is Natural Gas (NG)?
Natural Gas (NG) is a fuel obtained from underground bore-holes and mainly consists of hydrocarbons (primarily methane). It includes:
- Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and regasified LNG
- Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)
- Gas transported via international pipelines
- Gas from gas hydrates
- Coal Bed Methane (CBM)
Note: Helium associated with hydrocarbons is not included.
2. What is PNG?
Piped Natural Gas (PNG) is natural gas (mainly Methane - CH₄) supplied through pipelines such as:
- Carbon Steel (CS)
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Galvanized Iron (GI)
It is used across domestic, commercial, and industrial sectors.
3. PNG vs LPG - What’s the Difference?
- PNG (Piped Natural Gas):
- Supplied through pipelines
- Mainly Methane (CH₄)
- LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas):
- Supplied in cylinders (liquid form)
- Contains Propane and Butane
4. Advantages of PNG
- 24/7 Continuous Supply: No need to store gas
- No Booking Required: Always available instantly
- Reliable Metering: Accurate usage like electricity billing
- Space Saving: No bulky cylinders required
- Environment-Friendly: Lower carbon emissions (≈95% methane)
- High Safety Standards: Equipped with safety valves and pressure regulators
5. Is PNG Safe?
Yes. PNG is considered very safe because:
- It is lighter than air
- In case of leakage, it disperses quickly with proper ventilation
