LNG vs. CNG – Advantages & Disadvantages

CNG and LNG are quickly becoming reliable alternatives to traditional fuels. Both offer better environmental (nox and sox) standards then oil. It’s important to ask the right questions in regards to your company so we are addressing how it would be applied and in what situations LNG and CNG has its advantages.

LNG is usually the better option if you have a sourcing point within 600 miles of your facility.

PRICE

CNG is the better option if you are looking at short haul transportation that will refuel each night (ex: local trucking company)

If you are running a plant that requires large amounts of energy, LNG is the better option.

High Horse Power

CNG is a viable option but can take 3 times as many deliveries as LNG which decreases productivity and increases truck traffic.

LNG requires a cryogenic tank and vaporizer which converts the liquid into a gas. Small footprint and the tanks are stackable.

Footprint

CNG can be easily “trailered” and dropped into a facility. The footprint does require a greater use of space. Great for small scale industry needing temporary energy.

LNG is lighter per gallon then CNG-400 POUNDS per 135 gallon diesel storage. Better for long haul trucks and High Horsepower trucks (quarry).

Weight

CNG is 2000 pounds per 135 gallon diesel storage.

LNG units can be converted into CNG dispensers for trucking purposes with new technology.

Adaptability

CNG can be used as a better temporary form of energy. CNG cannot be converted to LNG.

The typical LNG contract can be hedged anywhere from 1-7 years. It can include infrastructure costs in the contract.

Contracts

The typical CNG contract is 1-2 years and does not include the capital costs of the project.