We know that Pennsylvania needs to respond to higher energy prices with economically sound, environmentally responsible ideas to promote energy efficiency and diversify our energy base with clean, renewable energy sources. Unfortunately, some state officials are promoting dirty and dangerous proposals that threaten our environment, our public health, and in some cases, public safety.

For example, the Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) wants to build a dangerous liquefied natural gas (LNG) import facility in northeast Philadelphia, potentially placing tens of thousands of citizens at risk. Studies have shown that if a leak were to occur from an LNG tanker traveling up the Delaware River, a resulting fire and explosion could injure people up to a mile away. In other cities with similar facilities, the security threat is so serious that LNG tankers are escorted into harbor by underwater dive teams and U.S. Coast Guard boats.

After researching the risks, PennEnvironment is now educating local residents by going door-to-door in neighborhoods affected, like Port Richmond and Bridesburg. Staff are also working to educate Philadelphia City Council members about the risks of this dangerous plan, and convince Council to oppose the proposal. In addition to meetings with City Council, PennEnvironment’s Nathan Willcox spoke at neighborhood meetings on the issue held in Philadelphia’s Bella Vista and Bridesburg neighborhoods—two of the many neighborhoods that fall within the one-mile risk zone.

“Given the threat posed by LNG facilities and tankers, and the abundance of safer energy alternatives, there is no reason why we should be building this facility in one of the most densely populated areas on the east coast,” said PennEnvironment’s Willcox. In the coming months, PennEnvironment will ramp up our work to ensure that City Council takes action to stop this dangerous proposal.

LNG: A brief background

What is LNG?
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is natural gas that has been cooled to negative 260 degrees Fahrenheit, converting it to a liquid to allow larger quantities to be transported.

How is LNG transported?
LNG is transported in large tankers. These ships are the length of a football field or longer.

What dangers are posed by LNG?
If ignited, the vapor released from the LNG spill over water could cause a “pool fire” that could result in “major injuries and significant damage to structures” within a third of a mile from the spill site, and “potential for injuries and property damage” up to one mile from the spill site, according to a study done for the U.S. Department of Energy.

Who decides if the LNG facility can be built in Philadelphia?
Since the utility proposing the Philadelphia facility is owned by the city, Philadelphia City Council decides whether or not the plan moves forward.

A tanker transporting LNG.

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