Decarbonization's 'Ideal and Reality': Latest Trends in Next-Generation Fuel "e-Methane" Thoroughly Explained on PIVOT!

Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Osaka; President: Masataka Fujiwara) appeared on the popular program '& questions' on the business video media 'PIVOT' and thoroughly explained the latest trends in the next-generation fuel 'e-methane,' which is key to realizing a decarbonized society.

In the program, two key figures leading the Daigas Group's (Osaka Gas) decarbonization efforts passionately discuss the reality of carbon neutrality, which is difficult to achieve with renewable energy (electrification) alone, and the next-generation gas fuel 'e-methane' as its trump card.

Viewing URL: https://www.daigasgroup.com/redirect/youtube_20260326.html

■ Three Key Points on Achieving Decarbonization Discussed in the Video

[1] The Reality of Decarbonization and "e-Methane" as the Key

While the image of 'decarbonization = electrification (renewable energy)' is strong, in reality, about 70% of energy demand in industrialized Japan is 'heat demand (heat/fuel)' for industrial boilers, heating furnaces, etc. Electrifying all of these is highly inefficient due to significant energy conversion losses and is not realistic in terms of cost. The Daigas Group (Osaka Gas) is focusing on 'e-methane,' which can utilize existing infrastructure as is, as the optimal solution for decarbonizing this 'heat' demand.

[2] World's Largest "e-Methane" Demonstration Project is Underway

The raw material for the next-generation fuel 'e-methane' is recycled CO2 emitted from the air or factories. While CO2 is emitted during combustion, the same amount of CO2 is captured during the manufacturing process, creating a net-zero (plus/minus zero) system that does not increase CO2. e-methane, with a composition almost identical to current city gas, can be utilized without any modifications to existing vast infrastructure assets, from imported LNG tankers to underground gas pipes, household stoves, and water heaters. The world's largest demonstration project for such e-methane is underway in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, and a project aiming for import by fiscal year 2030 is also starting in the United States.

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