Sylvie Willis
Natural gas vehicles (NGVs) are fuelled by compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG). As of 2023, there are over 700 public CNG fuelling stations and around 50 LNG fuelling stations in the US. LNG stations are structurally similar to gasoline and diesel stations, but require additional safety precautions during fuelling, such as protective clothing, face shields, and gloves. CNG stations can be further categorized into fast-fill, time-fill, or a combination of the two. Time-fill stations are generally not open to the public and are used for fleet vehicles with large tanks that return to a central location for an extended period, such as nightly. The cost of installing natural gas infrastructure can range from $10,000 for smaller fuelling units to several million dollars for larger stations.
Where can you fuel natural gas cars?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of public CNG fueling stations in the US | More than 700 |
| Number of LNG fueling stations in the US | Approximately 50 |
| Type of natural gas dispensed at stations | LNG, CNG, or both |
| Type of CNG station | Fast-fill, time-fill, or a combination |
| Typical users of fast-fill stations | Retail stations |
| Typical users of time-fill stations | Fleets with central refueling that can fill overnight |
| Typical payment methods | Major credit and fleet cards |
| Typical operating hours | 5 am to 11 pm |
| Installation cost of a smaller fueling appliance for home use | $10,000 |
| Installation cost of a CNG fueling station | Up to $1.8 million |
| Installation cost of an LNG fueling station | $1 million to several million |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
CNG and LNG station types and costs
CNG, or compressed natural gas, is typically compressed at the station. CNG fueling does not require special training or equipment, but it may take longer to complete based on the vehicle. There are three types of CNG stations: fast-fill, time-fill, and a combination of the two. The type of station needed depends on the application. Retail stations typically use fast-fill, while fleets that have central refueling and the ability to fill overnight use time-fill. All public fueling stations offer a fast-fill option. The cost of a CNG fueling station can range up to $1.8 million, depending on the size and application, while smaller fueling units average $10,000, including engineering, equipment, and installation.
LNG, or liquefied natural gas, is either liquefied on-site or trucked in from a liquefaction facility. LNG has a higher energy density than CNG, making it suitable for longer-range vehicles like Class 7 and 8 trucks, as well as medium to heavy-duty applications. LNG stations are structurally similar to gasoline and diesel stations, with a storage tank, meters, and a dispenser. LNG dispensers deliver fuel to vehicles at pressures of 30 to 120 psi. LNG requires special fueling clothing (including protective clothing, a face shield, and gloves) and training, but fueling takes less time than with CNG. LNG fueling station costs are highly variable, ranging from one to several million dollars, depending on factors such as storage capacity, station design, and the services needed to build it.
L-CNG stations are refueling stations that gasify LNG on-site to become CNG and refuel CNG vehicles. The main equipment required for an L-CNG station includes an LNG storage tank, LNG pump, gasifier, gas cylinder group, and CNG filling machine.
Fuel Level Low: How Far Can You Go?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Refuelling at home
Refuelling a natural gas car at home is possible with the installation of a small fuelling appliance. These home refuelling units tap into a house's natural gas main and compress the fuel so it can fill a vehicle's tank overnight.
The cost of installing natural gas infrastructure depends on the station size, capacity, the type of natural gas (LNG, CNG, or both) dispensed, and the way the gas is dispensed (fast-fill or time-fill). Smaller fuelling units average $10,000, including engineering, equipment, and installation.
Home refuelling units have been available for years, but refilling a natural gas car at home is uncommon in the United States. This is due to the upfront expense of buying and installing new units and a lack of natural gas cars on the market.
However, as the US natural gas drilling boom pushes output to record highs, companies like General Electric Co, Whirlpool Corp, and Eaton Corp are developing more affordable home refuelling systems. They aim to sell the new units to the millions of homes across America already hooked up to natural gas supplies.
Home refuelling is seen as the missing link to public adoption of natural gas vehicles. With natural gas at $1 to $1.40 per equivalent gallon, it is a much cheaper option than gasoline.
Best Fuel-Efficient Cars for Australian Roads
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Finding stations by location
Natural gas vehicles (NGVs) are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles. As a result, the number of natural gas fuelling stations is also increasing.
There are a few ways to find natural gas stations by location. One way is to use the Alternative Fueling Station Locator, which allows users to search for public and private CNG and LNG fuelling stations. This tool also has advanced filters to refine searches, such as including private and planned stations.
Another option is to visit the Natural Gas Vehicle Coalition website, which provides information on NGVs and home fuelling stations. Additionally, some companies, such as Intermountain Gas, offer to install separate gas meters to supply natural gas for home filling stations.
It is worth noting that there are two basic types of fuelling equipment: fast-fill and time-fill. Fast-fill systems use a compressor and a high-pressure storage system to fill the vehicle's fuel tank quickly, while time-fill systems compress the gas directly into the vehicle's storage cylinders while it is parked overnight. Public CNG stations that use these systems are currently limited but are rapidly expanding.
Understanding Your Car's Fuel Type: Unleashing the Power
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Station safety
Natural gas is a safe and reliable fuel source when used correctly. However, it is flammable and can be dangerous if leaked or improperly combusted. Here are some important station safety guidelines for natural gas vehicles (NGVs) and fuelling facilities:
- Fuel Type and Dispensing Method: CNG and LNG stations have different equipment requirements and safety considerations. LNG stations require less equipment but more safety precautions during fuelling due to the cryogenic nature of the fuel.
- Training and Protective Gear: LNG fuelling personnel must be trained on fuelling procedures and wear protective clothing, face shields, and gloves due to the extremely low temperatures and potential hazards of LNG.
- Fueling Procedures: Follow safe fuelling procedures, including using only the provided refueling latch and never jamming it open. Do not re-enter your vehicle during refuelling to prevent static electricity build-up, which could cause a fire.
- Storage and Ventilation: LNG-filled tanks may vent natural gas if stored unused for extended periods. LNG vehicles should be parked outside or in well-ventilated facilities to safely accommodate vented LNG.
- Gas Detection and Venting: Install gas detectors near the ground and ceiling in LNG vehicle storage areas, as LNG leaks can be difficult to detect due to their odourless nature. Ensure proper venting and oxygen supply for natural gas appliances, and never cover fresh air vents.
- Maintenance and Repair: Follow standard safety procedures when servicing CNG cylinders. Secure the cylinders and ensure proper maintenance to minimise safety risks associated with high-pressure gas.
- Safety Regulations: Adhere to safety regulations set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), such as NFPA 52 for NGV and fuelling facility safety, NFPA 30A for repair facilities, and NFPA 88A for parking garages.
- Odorisation and Leak Detection: Natural gas is odourless in its natural state, so chemicals (odorants) are added to give it a distinctive rotten egg smell to help detect leaks. LNG vehicles may also have electronic methane sensors to detect leaks.
- Emergency Response: In case of a suspected leak, keep clear of the area and contact the appropriate authorities, such as a fleet manager or fire safety officials.
By following these station safety guidelines and staying informed about natural gas properties and hazards, users can safely fuel and maintain their natural gas vehicles at designated fuelling stations.
Fuel Efficiency: Understanding Average Car Consumption
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Payment methods
When it comes to fuelling natural gas cars, there are a variety of payment methods available. These methods can vary depending on the specific natural gas provider and your location. Here are some common payment methods for natural gas:
Credit and Debit Cards
Many natural gas companies accept credit cards as a convenient and widely accepted payment method. Major credit card networks such as Visa, Mastercard, and Discover are often supported. Some providers may also accept American Express. It is worth noting that some providers may have transaction limits for credit and debit card payments, so be sure to check with your specific provider.
Bank Transfers
Using your bank account to pay for natural gas is another option. You can set up automatic payments or make one-time transfers to pay your bill. This method is often available through online banking or mobile banking apps, providing a fast and secure way to pay.
E-Wallets and Digital Payments
Some natural gas providers are embracing modern payment methods, including e-wallets and digital payment platforms. For example, National Fuel accepts payments through PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. These options offer convenience and security, especially for those who prefer cashless transactions.
Cash and Cheque
For those who prefer traditional payment methods, cash and cheque payments are also accepted by some natural gas providers. ENSTAR, for instance, has physical locations with 24/7 payment kiosks that accept cash, cheques, and credit or debit cards. Additionally, they provide night drop boxes for cheque or money order payments.
Third-Party Payment Services
In some cases, third-party payment services can be used to pay your natural gas bill. For instance, Doxo.com allows customers to pay their natural gas bills online. However, it is important to be cautious as these third-party services may charge extra fees, and there may be delays in processing the payments.
It is always recommended to review the official website or contact customer service for your specific natural gas provider to understand the accepted payment methods and any associated fees or processing times.
Cars Running on Fuel and Electric: A Hybrid Future?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
As of 2023, there are over 700 public compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling stations in the United States. You can find the locations of these stations using the Alternative Fueling Station Locator.
There are three types of CNG stations: fast-fill, time-fill, and a combination of the two. The type of station needed depends on the application. Retail stations typically use fast-fill, while fleets that have central refueling and the ability to fill overnight use time-fill.
LNG stations are structurally similar to gasoline and diesel stations, with a storage tank, meters, and dispensers. LNG dispensers deliver fuel at pressures of 30 to 120 psi. There are approximately 50 LNG fueling stations in the US, mostly servicing the long-haul trucking industry. You can locate these stations using the Alternative Fueling Station Locator.
