Natural gas (NG) is a fossil fuel derived from the remains of ancient plants and animals. It forms when layers of decaying organic material are exposed to severe heat and pressure beneath the Earth’s surface over millions of years. This non-renewable hydrocarbon is colourless, odourless and non-toxic, serving as a source of energy for heating, cooking and electricity generation. NG can also be used as fuel in some cars and also as a chemical feedstock in the production of plastics and other significant organic chemicals.

Natural gas exists in two states: gaseous (compressed natural gas) and liquid (liquefied natural gas). To facilitate transport, natural gas is cooled to a liquid state at temperatures between -120 degrees Celsius and -165 degrees Celsius. Compressed natural gas is kept at pressures of 200 to 250 bars. While natural gas is suitable for all vehicles, liquefied natural gas is preferred for long-haul vehicles and extended travel distances.