In recent years, the landscape of household energy in India has undergone a significant transformation, with cooking gas pipelines, also known as Piped Natural Gas (PNG),emerging as a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional LPG cylinders. As urbanization spreads to smaller cities and towns, the demand for efficient, safe, and cost-effective cooking solutions has surged. This article explores the growing adoption of cooking gas pipelines in small cities, their numerous benefits, why they outperform conventional cylinders, and a practical guide to making the switch. With India’s natural gas market projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.33% through 2030, PNG is poised to play a pivotal role in the nation’s energy future.
The Growing Adoption of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) in Small Cities
The expansion of cooking gas pipelines in small cities across India is a testament to the government’s push toward a gas-based economy. As of May 2025, over 1.47 crore households are connected to PNG, marking a substantial increase from previous years. This growth extends beyond major metros like Delhi and Mumbai, reaching tier-2 and tier-3 cities such as those in the northeastern states, where investments of approximately $4.95 billion are earmarked for natural gas pipeline infrastructure. By the end of 2024, India had nearly 14 million PNG connections, with annual additions averaging around a million, driven by infrastructure development and rising economic activities.
This surge is fueled by the City Gas Distribution (CGD) sector, which is expected to reach USD 19.84 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.5%. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has granted licenses for 136 new geographies in recent years, enabling the rollout of pipelines in smaller urban centers. In these areas, PNG’s popularity stems from its alignment with smart city initiatives, where sustainable energy solutions are prioritized. For instance, commercial PNG connections have grown by 164%, and industrial ones by 76%, highlighting its broad appeal.
Despite challenges like high initial costs and infrastructure hurdles, which have made PNG’s growth slower than Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for vehicles, the demand is projected to rise by about 8% annually to 297 million standard cubic meters per day (mmscmd) by 2030 under optimistic scenarios. This expansion is particularly vital in small cities, where traditional cylinder delivery logistics are often inefficient due to remote locations and poor road networks. As more households in places like those in the northeast and central India get connected, PNG is not just a convenience but a catalyst for cleaner urban living.
Key Benefits of Cooking Gas Pipelines
Cooking gas pipelines offer a host of advantages that make them an attractive choice for modern households. One of the primary benefits is uninterrupted supply. Unlike cylinders that require frequent refills, PNG provides a continuous flow of gas directly to your kitchen, eliminating the hassle of running out mid-cooking. This reliability is especially beneficial in small cities, where delivery delays can be common.
Safety is another cornerstone benefit. PNG is lighter than air, so in the rare event of a leak, it disperses quickly into the atmosphere, reducing the risk of accumulation and explosion. Its narrow flammability range further enhances safety, making it one of the safest fuels available. Additionally, PNG operates at a low pressure of about 21 millibars,200 times less than LPG cylinders,minimizing the chances of high-pressure accidents.
From an environmental perspective, PNG is cleaner, producing lower emissions compared to other fossil fuels, aligning with India’s goal of increasing natural gas’s share in the energy mix to 15% by 2030. It also promotes energy efficiency, as there’s no wastage from underweight cylinders or residual gas. Economically, users enjoy stable pricing without the fluctuations often seen in LPG, leading to long-term savings. Convenience factors in too,no need for storage space, manual handling, or booking refills, freeing up time and reducing physical effort.
In small cities, these benefits translate to improved quality of life. Families can focus on daily routines without worrying about gas shortages, and the eco-friendly nature supports local sustainability efforts.
How Cooking Gas Pipelines Are Better Than Conventional Cylinders
When comparing cooking gas pipelines to conventional LPG cylinders, PNG stands out in several key areas: cost, safety, convenience, and overall efficiency.
On cost, PNG is generally more economical in the long run. While initial installation might involve a one-time fee, ongoing expenses are lower due to stable pricing and no delivery charges. Studies indicate savings of up to 30% for households, depending on usage. In contrast, LPG cylinders incur recurring costs for refills, transportation, and potential subsidies that may vary. For frequent cooks in small cities, this cost advantage can add up significantly over time.
Safety is where PNG truly excels. LPG is heavier than air and can pool in low areas during leaks, increasing explosion risks. PNG’s low-pressure delivery and quick dispersion make it safer, with research confirming it’s superior in transportation and handling aspects as well. No more concerns about cylinder leaks, underweight deliveries, or storage hazards—common issues with LPG.
Convenience is unparalleled with PNG. Cylinders require booking, waiting for delivery, and manual replacement, often disrupting routines in remote small cities. PNG eliminates these logistics, offering a hassle-free, metered supply billed like electricity. It’s also more space-efficient, as there’s no need to store bulky cylinders.
Environmentally, PNG reduces carbon footprints with cleaner combustion, supporting India’s shift from liquid fuels. Overall, for safety-conscious, budget-savvy households in growing small cities, PNG is the superior choice.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Switching to Cooking Gas Pipeline
Switching to a cooking gas pipeline is straightforward, thanks to major providers like Indian Oil, Adani Gas, Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL), and GAIL Gas. Here’s a verified guide based on official processes:
- Check Availability: Confirm if PNG is available in your area by visiting the provider’s website (e.g., Adani Gas or IGL) or calling their customer care (e.g., Indian Oil at 1800-180-7788). In small cities, coverage is expanding rapidly.
- Apply Online or Offline: Most providers offer online applications. For instance, on the Adani Gas site, download the form or apply directly; for IGL, use their “Apply for New Connection” portal. Submit basic details like address, contact info, and preferred connection type (domestic PNG).
- Submit Documents: Upload or provide proofs such as ID (Aadhaar/PAN), address proof, and property documents. For GAIL Gas, this can be done via their registration portal.
- Pay Fees and Schedule Survey: Pay the registration fee (varies by provider, often refundable against security). A site survey will assess feasibility and installation needs.
- Installation and Activation: Once approved, technicians install the pipeline, meter, and connect to your stove. This typically takes a few days to weeks. Ensure your stove is PNG-compatible or get it modified.
- Billing and Usage: Post-activation, you’ll receive metered bills. If you have an existing LPG connection, declare your PNG status to retain a non-subsidized LPG as backup.
The entire process is user-friendly, with providers offering support throughout. In small cities, incentives like subsidies may apply, making the switch even more appealing.
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