LNG vs CNG: Choosing a Trucked Gas Supply
LNG and CNG are both natural gas made truckable, but by different methods. LNG is cooled to about minus 260 degrees Fahrenheit, shrinking its volume roughly 600 times. CNG is compressed to high pressure, reducing volume to roughly one hundredth. Because each LNG trailer carries several times more energy, LNG usually wins for large loads and long distances, while CNG suits smaller loads close to a compression station.
The density difference drives everything
Per EIA, liquefaction shrinks natural gas volume about 600 times. Compression to typical CNG storage pressures of 3,000 to 3,600 psi, per the U.S. Department of Energy, achieves roughly a 100 fold reduction. That means one LNG trailer delivers the energy of several CNG trailers, so trucking cost per unit of energy falls sharply with LNG as volumes and distances grow.
Where CNG wins
CNG needs no cryogenic equipment, tolerates intermittent use without boil off considerations, and works well within roughly 100 to 200 miles of a compression station for small and medium loads. Compression stations are also cheaper and faster to build than liquefaction plants, so CNG sourcing can be closer to some customers.
Where LNG wins
Large continuous demand, long hauls, onsite storage requirements, marine and intermodal movements, and any application needing days of stored energy in a compact footprint. LNG also stores far more energy per acre of site space, which matters for peak shaving and backup programs.
VP Ventures supplies delivered LNG programs and can price the LNG side of this comparison for a specific site, load, and distance.
Frequently asked questions
Is LNG or CNG cheaper for temporary gas supply?
It depends on load size and distance. As demand and mileage rise, LNG's 6 times higher trailer energy content usually makes it cheaper delivered.
Do LNG and CNG burn differently in equipment?
No. Both vaporize or expand into ordinary natural gas and burn identically in the same equipment.
Can a site switch between CNG and LNG supply?
Yes. Both deliver pipeline quality gas at the meter, so the choice is purely logistics and cost.
Which is better for backup fuel storage?
LNG, because it stores about 6 times more energy in the same space and holds large inventories economically.