Fortis makes case for RNG

Re. Janet Parkin’s columns, What is renewable natural gas and where does it come from (Castanet, Dec. 27) and Climate and health effects, marketing strategy and future potential of renewable natural gas (Castanet Jan. 7)

FortisBC is actively working to deliver renewable and low-carbon gases, like renewable natural gas, to reduce emissions while affordably meeting the energy needs of B.C. families and businesses.

We believe a successful transition to a net-zero future, and to advance the B.C. government’s intention to adopt a net-zero target, should involve utilities like FortisBC to invest in, own and operate energy infrastructure that reduces greenhouse gas emissions, while maintaining a resilient, reliable and affordable energy system.

The recent columns contain inaccurate and misleading information about RNG. While we appreciate the interest in this important energy source, we believe it’s important to ensure the information being shared is accurate and not misleading.

First, while RNG is indeed chemically identical to conventional natural gas, it is important to emphasize that its environmental impact is different. Derived from organic sources, RNG is a lower carbon direct substitute for conventional natural gas. It uses existing carbon already within the ecosystem, which means the gas itself does not add net new carbon to the atmosphere.

The assertion that burning RNG produces the same amount of CO2 as conventional natural gas also oversimplifies the issue. While it is true that burning both types of methane releases carbon dioxide, RNG is lower carbon. The lifecycle emissions of RNG are lower than those of conventional natural gas, which is extracted from underground.

The author claims FortisBC's RNG will come from purchasing "environmental attributes" from out-of-province producers ignores the fact that these credits represent the environmental benefits of RNG production, not just a commodity. They are part of how RNG production is incentivized and should not be dismissed. FortisBC is purchasing actual RNG molecules that enter the gas system at the point of production. This displaces the need for conventional natural gas and through displacement is accounted for in the province.

B.C. receives both a molecule of methane (through displacement) along with the attribute that it has lower carbon. This is no different than how the electricity system works. There is a benefit of lowering carbon emissions overall and not simply within the geographic landscape in B.C. specifically. For instance, emissions released into the atmosphere do not know geographical boundaries and government emissions reduction goals reflect this.

The suggestion RNG production processes used by FortisBC suppliers are inefficient or "uncommon" also requires further context. While it is true some methods, like those involving syngas, or high-heat processes, can be energy-intensive, these are still part of the technological evolution of RNG production. Like any emerging technology, there are ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and scalability. Furthermore, FortisBC was the first utility in North America to offer RNG to its customers almost 15 years ago.

The assertion that FortisBC’s proposed RNG suppliers in Ontario are unaware of the projects or have had their proposals rejected is inaccurate. FortisBC has agreements approved by the British Columbia Utilities Commission for projects with Bradam Canada Inc. but these are not yet operational or part of our current supply. In fact, we have a number of RNG projects underway drawing on different sources and in different locations, working closely with all levels of government.

Finally, the author’s conclusion that RNG is a “greenwashing” tool and that gas companies use it to “sell more natural gas” misrepresents the broader strategy of energy transition. FortisBC’s commitment to increasing the share of renewable and lower-carbon gas in its system by 2050 is part of a broader collaborative effort to decarbonize the energy sector and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. It is not about maintaining business as usual, but about finding pragmatic solutions to reduce emissions while working toward a lower-carbon energy future for our customers.

We believe in fostering healthy, balanced discussions about energy. It’s important to approach these conversations with an open mind, rather than a one-sided view. The portrayal of RNG as an ineffective solution fails to acknowledge its true potential and the significant benefits it offers as a lower-carbon energy source.

Jason Wolfe,
director, energy solutions at FortisBC