Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is natural gas that has been cooled to a liquid state (liquefied), at about -260° Fahrenheit, for shipping and storage. The volume of natural gas in its liquid state is about 600 times smaller than its volume in its gaseous state in a natural gas pipeline. This liquefaction process, developed in the 19th century, makes it possible to transport natural gas to places natural gas pipelines do not reach and to use natural gas as a transportation fuel.

LNG transportation

Specialized ships link worldwide LNG production or liquefaction plants and regasification facilities to create a safe, reliable and efficient network to transport liquefied natural gas around the world. LNG ships are equipped with sophisticated leak detection technology, emergency shutdown systems, advanced radar and positioning systems, and numerous other technologies designed to ensure the safe and secure transport of LNG.

How is LNG used?

LNG is returned to a gaseous state at LNG import and regasification terminals around the world. Once it has been warmed to become natural gas, it is dispersed through pipelines for use by homes and businesses. It can be used in a variety of ways: Residential uses for natural gas include cooking, heating homes and generating electricity, while commercial uses for natural gas include heating, generating electricity, manufacturing products like fertilizers, paints and medicines, and occasionally fueling commercial vehicles.