Editorial Comment

Modern society would not be possible without the use of pipelines to transport natural gas, crude oil and finished products to demand centers. These products provide much-needed feedstocks for processing operations, as well as fuels for transportation, heating and electricity.

The need for additional pipeline systems is imperative, especially with growing economies in many different parts of the world—demand for heating, electricity and cooking are leading to a significantly higher demand for natural gas.

To satisfy future demand, new natural gas pipelines systems are being built to transport this commodity from import centers or domestic production areas to demand centers. Presently, Gulf Energy Information’s Global Energy Infrastructure database is tracking more than 430 active natural gas pipeline projects around the world. These systems represent tens of thousands of miles of pipelines and constitute hundreds of billions of dollars in capital investments.

The increased use of natural gas is also providing countries around the world with new options to decarbonize various industries. Many nations are actively pursuing low-carbon initiatives to reach future low- and net-zero economies. Increasing natural gas in a country’s total energy mix only helps on this pathway to lower carbon emissions.

Since the use of natural gas pipelines is a crucial part of modern societies, Gas Processing & LNG has devoted this issue’s Special Focus section to new technologies that can enhance pipeline operations. GP