LPG Day: Exploring the Role of Renewable Liquid Gases in the Current Energy Transition

On LPG Day, we spoke to Miriam Cavagna, Head of Marketing and Communications at Cavagna Group, about the role LPG can play in the current energy transition. This is a significant, long-felt, global challenge where gases, in particular, can make a substantial difference.

Can you tell us about your role and the Cavagna Group?

As a member of the Cavagna family, you could say that I grew up within the Group. For the past ten years, I have been in charge of the marketing and communications department, overseeing all the companies in the Group. This requires a comprehensive overview of our subsidiaries, markets and different lines of business. This preamble is fundamental, in my opinion, because describing our Group is quite a complex task. Cavagna is a family-owned group established in 1949 in the non-ferrous metal processing industrial district in northern Italy. From a small manufacturing operation, we have grown into an international group with offices all over the world. Our origins tell a lot about us. We started with the production of LPG valves and regulators and have expanded our range over the years to supply equipment for all types of gases. Our slogan sums it up well: “Wherever gas is used, we are there”.

What role does LPG play in the current transition?

The importance of LPG, now known as liquid gas, is evident from the figures. According to the latest data from the World Liquid Gas Association (WLGA), more than three billion people worldwide use liquid gas, with global consumption exceeding 300 million tons.

These indicators highlight its widespread use in multiple fields. It is adopted not only by end consumers but also by industrial plants for various purposes, such as producing energy and for mobility, heating, cooking, hot water production, etc.

The reasons for the widespread use of LPG are numerous, as are its benefits. The first is its efficiency, offering excellent performance and consumption results with minimal input. This is followed by its versatility; LPG can be used in different industries and for diverse purposes.

Another significant advantage is its transportability. It can be stored in cylinders or tanks and delivered almost anywhere, even in rural areas and small towns not reached by pipelines. It is no coincidence that LPG is used worldwide and significantly helps developing countries transition from harmful fuel sources such as coal or wood.

Additionally, LPG is safe, which is crucial and not always a given when it comes to gas. This should not be forgotten. Ensuring the health and safety of end consumers has always been one of our primary goals, and we strive to offer the best products to achieve this.

What’s next?

We live in a rapidly changing world, making forecasts challenging. However, the demand on our industry and our duty to the environment are undeniable. The real challenge will be finding the right balance between these goals and protecting people and situations that would be severely affected by a total shutdown of energy sources such as LPG.

We believe this challenge can be met by implementing various strategies, such as continuous research and development aimed at discovering new fuels. Today, we have green fuels such as BioLPG, renewable and recycled carbon DME, hydrogen and biogas, to name but a few. Supporting and committing to certifying bodies, new research projects, and trade associations – such as the WLGA and its counterparts on different continents – can make a significant difference.

Our mission is to share our expertise from 75 years in the gas business by actively participating in various technical working groups. This allows us to extend the control limits of all gases and test the compatibility of existing materials and facilities.

We are convinced that LPG can and should be one of the key players in this process.

Happy LPG Day!