Shell Expands Natural Gas Fuel Option

 HOUSTON — Shell has signed an agreement with TravelCentres of America (TA) that says liquefied natural gas (LNG) will be sold to heavy -duty trucks in the US and through TA’s existing nationwide networks of full-service fueling centers.

Under that agreement, the construction of more than 200 LNG fuel lanes throughout the US interstate highway system is being planed. If the final details of the agreement are worked out, the first of the proposed LNG fuel lanes will be open for business as soon as 2013.

But LNG options are not increasing only for American truck drivers.

Last year, Shell announced it would sell LNG to its heavy-duty fleet customers at select Flying J truck stops in Alberta beginning in 2012, and they kept to their promise. The first LNG retail plaza in Calgary is expected to open this year.

“This potential alliance with TA would enable Shell to deliver LNG fuel to customers who want a competitively priced fuel option to help them meet increasingly stringent air quality emission standards,” said Elen Phillips, vice president of Shell fuels sales and marketing in North America.

Demand for LNG is growing because of potential benefits like lower fuel costs, a gentler impact on the environment and reduced noise levels.