LNG a crucial transition fuel, expert says

- Advertisement -

AN expert in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry said LNG emerges as a practical route towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

“As the country sets its sights on meeting ambitious clean energy targets outlined in the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP), LNG emerges as a beacon of hope,” said Ina Pauline Abelon.

As the world moves towards a sustainable energy future, LNG emerges as a crucial transition fuel, bridging the gap between traditional fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, Abelon said.

- Advertisement -

She said LNG’s abundant availability, reliability, and scalability make it an ideal candidate to complement intermittent renewables like wind and solar power. Furthermore, LNG’s efficiency and flexibility enable it to serve as a steady baseload power source while accommodating fluctuations in energy demand.

“Although LNG is expensive and exposed to global market risks, strategic partnerships with countries mature in LNG technologies and increased supply competition may reduce costs,” Abelon said.

She noted that LNG’s higher efficiency (55 to 65 percent) and ability to provide a large capacity in a small area make it a viable transition fuel. Compared to a conventional oil and gas facility, LNG plants have lower operational costs and higher availability.

While Malampaya’s indigenous natural gas source is cost-effective, its depletion by 2027 necessitates preparation for LNG as a reliable alternative, according to Abelon.

Moreover, LNG serves as a reliable baseload energy source, providing steady capacity 24/7, unlike variable renewable energy sources constrained by weather conditions.

“As much as the world needs renewable energies, we also need a steady, reliable energy source that could accommodate our demands 24/7. Energy is vital to the growth of the country and it is essential for any growth to be supported sustainably,” Abelon said.

Abelon reassures the public on the common public concern– safety. “On the contrary, the Philippines has been using LNG for 23 years. The process of extraction to transportation to power generation is heavily studied throughout to ensure efficiency in operation and safety to the communities.”

Author

- Advertisement -

Share post: