Natural Gas is a Winner at Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022
When we think about the energy needed to host a major event, sustainability comes to mind. That’s why sustainability has been a major point of emphasis for the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022. By providing safe and reliable natural gas, China is reaching for its sustainability goals while fueling both the games and its communities. Whether it’s natural gas-powered vehicles transporting Olympians or fueling heating and cooking for those watching in their homes, there is no question the major role natural gas is playing at this year’s Olympic games.
Fueling this year’s Olympics
Natural gas accounts for more than 34 percent of total energy consumption in Beijing, and hosting the Olympics is boosting demand further. Winter temperatures and Olympic events have caused local energy company, CNPC, to increase production to 6.4 bcm to ensure a stable gas supply without interruption to residents in the area. To put that into context, the annual production for the state of Utah alone was 6.87 bcm in 2020.
Also, due to this expected increase in energy consumption, the neighboring city of Zhangjiakou has built six natural gas pipeline networks with an annual gas transportation capacity of 3.2 bcm. The use of natural gas leaves the games in good hands. Its reliability, accompanied by low carbon emissions, makes it a great energy choice for the country and this year’s Olympics.
While natural gas use is increasing in China, it continues to play a significant role in the U.S. energy supply, providing energy to 187 million Americans every day, and helping our nation meet its cleaner energy goals. In fact, investment of $95 million every day in infrastructure upgrades and energy efficiency has driven down emissions from the natural gas distribution system by 69 percent since 1990.
The Olympics are reshaping China’s energy usage
When China applied to host the Olympics in 2014, they had to commit to the World Health Organization’s air quality standards for the games. Since then, local governments have taken new measures to cut pollution from industrial, residential, and transportation sources in the region. Beijing and Zhangjiakou have adopted efforts to improve energy efficiency and expedite the development of lower-carbon heating sources such as natural gas. These goals have made China the world’s largest liquid natural gas importer.
As China continues to towards these goals, the use of natural gas will undoubtedly help them drive towards lower emissions and a cleaner future – and possibly earn a spot on the energy podium. Talk about a win!