An independent analysis of the Addison Natural Gas Project provided by vermont Gas Systems shows that the 41-mile project will significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions if customers switch from heating oil to gas.
Key findings of the analysis include:
* The Addison Natural Gas Project could reduce GHG emissions from oil-using customers by 13,901 short tons per year , or 278,010 short tons over twenty years;
* The life-cycle GHG emissions of CO2 and methane from natural gas are 23% lower than fuel oil on an end-use basis
The report is the only review of the Addison Natural Gas Project that provides a full-fuel cycle analysis, evenly comparing natural gas to other fuel sources.
The analysis was conducted by energy consulting firm ICF International and led by energy expert Joel Bluestein, senior vice president. ICF International has been a leader in life-cycle analysis for many years and in particular in the analysis of methane emissions from the natural gas industry for regulators, industry, and environmental groups.
"We've always known that natural gas reduces greenhouse gas emissions," said Stephen Wark, director of communications of Vermont Gas. "Now, in addition to the significant economic benefits of natural gas, this complete analysis clearly demonstrates that as Vermonters we can reduce our carbon footprint while improving the air we breathe by converting from oil to natural gas."
The scientific findings are consistent with President Obama's Climate Action Plan, announced earlier this week, that support the role that natural gas plays in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a more responsible and sustainable energy future.
In Vermont, natural gas residential customers can save up to $2,000 per year when compared to fuel oil or propane; eligible low-income Vermont Gas customers can receive an additional 20 percent discount. Small and large employers benefit from 24-7 access to natural gas as a more affordable, cleaner energy source that helps fuel the local economy.
Vermont Gas serves 45,000 customers in Franklin and Chittenden counties and is currently working to expand service into Addison and Rutland counties through the Addison Natural Gas Project. The company's long heritage for safe and reliable operations includes its award-winning energy-efficiency programs, which reduce energy use while saving $12 million annually for homes and businesses.
For more information about the Addison Natural Gas Project, visit www.addisonnaturalgas.com
Source: Vermont Gas Systems 6.28.2013
Study: Natural gas life-cycle greenhouse gases 23 percent lower than oil
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on