Working With the Environment

The demand for natural gas has increased as the clear environmental advantage over other fossil fuels has emerged. Extraction from the Marcellus and Utica shale formations has increased access to natural gas, reducing fuel production costs and distribution locally. North Pier does not drill for gas or own wells; North Pier uses local gas to make new liquid fuel.

LNG is the liquid form of natural gas, which is the cleanest burning form of fossil fuel. It is widely regarded as safe and environmentally friendly fuel. There are very few alternative fuels suitable for heavy equipment. LNG produces relatively low emissions especially when compared to other carbon-based fuel sources.

LNG is odorless, non-toxic and non-corrosive. In the chance of a spill, it will quickly evaporate, changing back into a gas and rise away from the ground as it warms. LNG leaves no residue on soil. It is less than half the weight of water, floating and freezing water on contact before evaporating.

Safety

Safety is always a priority at North Pier. All of our facilities are designed to meet or exceed federal and state safety guidelines. Our equipment meets the National Fire Protection Association standards.

LNG has been safely loaded onto and carried by ships for more than 50 years. According toCaptain Stephen Brown, president of the Chamber of Shipping of British Columbia, the Society of International Gas Tanker and Terminal Operators (SIGTTO) calculates that more than 80,000 LNG cargoes have been safely delivered, with no loss of cargo tank containment and no on-board fatalities attributable to cargo operations. That’s an enviable record of achievement in any mode of transportation.

LNG is less volatile than gasoline and is not explosive by nature allowing it to be a very safe vehicle fuel. LNG is flammable, but cannot turn back into natural gas rapidly enough in an open environment to be explosive.  Natural gas is lighter than air, so as LNG turns back into natural gas, it rises up and away from people and buildings. Natural gas, though can be flammable and explosive if a concentration of between 5%-15% is released into a confined space and is ignited.

At North Pier we are always looking for new and innovative ways to partner with our neighbors and enhance the community we call home. If you have a partnership opportunity for us to consider, please contact us and let us know.