History and Current Status of Hokkaido Gas' Natural Gas Conversion (1996-2020s)

History and Current Status of Hokkaido Gas' Natural Gas Conversion (1996-2020s)

1996: Start of natural gas conversion

On May 9, 1996, Hokkaido Gas (Hokkaidogas) began converting city gas from Atsubetsu-ku, Sapporo to natural gas. The plan was to use natural gas produced in Hokkaido at the Yufutsu gas field in Tomakomai City, and to complete the conversion of approximately 500,000 households in Sapporo by 2006. Natural gas emits less carbon dioxide and sulfur oxides than oil or coal, and has attracted attention as a clean energy source. Through this plan, Kitagas aimed to reduce environmental impact and improve energy efficiency throughout the city.

2000s: Progress in Conversion Work and Strengthening of Supply Base

In 2002, natural gas conversion was completed in the Chitose area, and in 2003, the "Sapporo to Otaru trunk line" natural gas pipeline was completed, strengthening the supply base from Sapporo to Otaru. Subsequently, the Otaru area (2005) and Hakodate area (2006) also completed the conversion of their main supply areas to natural gas.

2010s: Expansion of Supply Areas and Introduction of New Technology

In the 2010s, the Kitami LNG Satellite Terminal began operations in 2009 to promote conversion in the Kitami area. As a result, natural gas supply was also started in Kitami City. In 2012, the Ishikari LNG Terminal began operations at Ishikari Bay New Port, enabling the stable import and supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and significantly strengthening the energy infrastructure of the entire region. The terminal has the capacity to handle 2 million tons of LNG per year, marking a major turning point in the spread of natural gas in Hokkaido.

Furthermore, in 2016, the company entered the electricity retail business, establishing an integrated gas and electricity energy supply system. Kitagas diversified its energy supply, offering energy solutions for business establishments and factories in addition to services for households.

2020s: Going Carbon Neutral

In February 2021, Kitagas became the first company in Hokkaido to introduce carbon neutral LNG by signing a carbon neutral LNG purchase agreement with Mitsui & Co. With this move, we aimed to reduce CO₂ emissions from natural gas use and realize a sustainable society.

In addition, on January 25, 2023, the city gas supply reached a record 425,2079 cubic meters (45 megajoules equivalent), the largest ever recorded. This record supply was driven by increased demand for heating, water heating, and snow melting throughout the region.

Conclusion.

For more than 25 years since its inception in 1996, Hokkaido Gas' natural gas conversion has made a significant contribution to sustainable energy supply in Sapporo and other regions. Particularly since the 2010s, the expansion of the supply base, the construction of LNG terminals, and the introduction of carbon-neutral LNG have played an important role in Hokkaido's overall energy policy to reduce the environmental impact of the region.