NCNG has joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Natural Gas STAR Program, aimed at reducing emissions of methane.
Natural Gas STAR, a voluntary program between the EPA and the natural gas industry, seeks to reduce methane emissions by encouraging the use of cost-effective technologies and practices. Methane, the primary component of natural gas, is considered to be a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming.
"All of us at NCNG are delighted to be part of this program," said Terry Davis, the company's senior vice president for operations. "It is an excellent example of government and private industry working collaboratively to find solutions to the country's environmental challenges."
Although less than two percent of natural gas delivered throughout the United States is lost through emissions, Natural Gas STAR partners have eliminated more than 120 billion cubic feet of methane emissions since the program began. This represents the equivalent of removing 9.5 million cars from the road for one year or planting 14.5 million acres of trees. At the same time, companies have saved $360 million by keeping more gas in their systems for delivery to customers.
"This is a win-win approach to addressing concerns about global climate change," said Paul Gunning, the Natural Gas STAR program manager at EPA. "Natural Gas STAR partners reduce gas losses, improve operational efficiencies and save money while protecting the environment. EPA is excited to be working with NCNG to meet these important economic and environmental goals."
Launched in 1993 as part of the Climate Change Action Plan, this cooperative partnership now has more than 80 partner companies and is endorsed by 11 major industry trade associations. For more information about the EPA's Natural Gas STAR program, visit www.epa.gov/gasstar.
NCNG provides natural gas and related services to more than 173,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in south-central and eastern North Carolina. The company is headquartered in Raleigh, N.C.
edited by Sandy Smith ([email protected])