Organized by Natural Gas Futures (NGF), more than 20 researchers from the University of British Columbia (UBC) met on May 17 to review UBC’s existing projects in the natural gas value chain, continue collaborations between both campuses, and discuss future directions of the NGF.

A broad range of projects was reviewed and discussed, including upstream gas development, renewable natural gas production, hydrogen blending, sensor technology, carbon capture, combustion characterization, emissions monitoring, policy analysis and blockchain technology. The meeting generated positive outcomes and fostered strong collaborations in a multidisciplinary environment. The researchers also provided valuable suggestions to the NGF regarding future partnerships, potential collaborations, outreach strategies and research directions.

The goal of the NGF is increased production and utilization of gas from renewable sources while reducing methane emissions through the natural gas supply chain. Using data-driven initiatives, the group strives towards responsible deployment of conventional natural gas and other gaseous fuels.

“The breadth of our research continues to grow along with our network of researchers and industry collaborators,” explains Walter Mérida, director of Natural Gas Futures.

From life cycle decision-making to computational models, breakthrough technologies and impact assessments, researchers across UBC are developing new approaches and technologies to improve gas infrastructure from production to distribution and consumption.

“Our partners are already benefiting from findings generated from NGF research, and the momentum is growing,” says Paul Blomerus, natural gas sector lead and industry partnerships advisor at UBC.

Benefiting from its affiliation with UBC’s Clean Energy Research Centre (CERC), the NGF aims to advance clean energy research and technologies supporting the responsible use of gaseous fuels.

“We continue to look towards the future to find solutions and innovations in the evolving realm of gaseous fuel research and usage,” says Mérida.