Virginia Natural Gas launches pilot program to encourage RNG production

Virginia Natural Gas (VNG) is launching a five-year pilot program to encourage the development of renewable natural gas (RNG) production facilities in its service territory.

The RNG pilot program, approved by the Virginia State Corporation Commission, is part of the energy company’s Sustainable Gas Program, which will allow for the production and delivery of RNG into VNG’s pipeline system and support the procurement of both RNG and Next Generation Natural Gas.

“At Virginia Natural Gas, we are committed to supporting the development of renewable energy sources as we pursue our climate and environmental goals,” Robert Duvall, president of Virginia Natural Gas, said. “The approval of this pilot program is a significant step as we move forward to develop sustainable, environmentally responsible solutions while helping our state lead in the progress toward a clean energy future.”

As part of the approval, Virginia Natural Gas will be able to interconnect RNG production facilities with its existing natural gas pipeline distribution system to encourage the production and delivery of RNG. VNG is the first local distribution company in the state to establish a tariff that allows interconnection between an RNG production facility and a natural gas utility’s distribution system.

RNG is a low or negative carbon energy solution derived from organic waste. As the organic waste sources decompose, methane is produced, which is captured and converted to RNG. It is a sustainable and reliable energy source compatible with existing infrastructure when blended with natural gas.