Gas Supply Infrastructure

In 2012, Japan imported 87 million tons of LNG or 36.2 % of total worldwide LNG imports of 239 million tons. The main sources, accounting for over 70 % of the total, are Asia-Pacific countries such as Australia, Malaysia, Russia, and Brunei. LNG production is dispersed more widely around the world, making it less exposed to geopolitical risk than oil. LNG can be transported in several ways, such as tank lorries and tank containers, to satellite bases for distribution. Gas pipelines are the primary means in Japan, where there are two kinds of gas pipelines. One is for transport of natural gas produced in domestic gas fields; the other is for transport of city gas produced in LNG terminals to areas of demand. For metering gas consumption at customer sites, there is an increasing need for remote meter reading. Furthermore, it is believed that demand will increase for services that emphasize security and safety or for those facilitating monitoring of senior citizens or those living alone via their gas use. Energy saving is another important consideration. To meet all these expectations, a smart gas meter is being developed.