The current geopolitical tensions stemming from the United States and Israel’s conflict with Iran are impacting the Indian household and hospitality markets, leading to reports of longer waiting times for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders and occasional supply disruptions across various cities. This is largely attributed to the fact that a substantial portion of oil and gas exports from Gulf countries transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a maritime route that has been effectively shut down by Iran. Since India relies on this corridor for about 80-85% of its LPG imports, any disturbance in the flow can significantly affect the availability of cooking gas in the country.
Despite these disruptions, the Indian government maintains that there is currently no nationwide shortage of LPG. Consumers have begun to inquire whether LPG cylinders can be filled with alternative gases, such as piped natural gas (PNG), but the answer is firmly no. The distinction lies in the composition of these gases: LPG is primarily a mixture of propane and butane, produced through the refining of crude oil, and can be liquefied under comparatively low pressure. This enables large quantities of LPG to be stored in compact cylinders suitable for household use.
Conversely, PNG, mainly composed of methane, requires extremely high pressure or very low temperatures to be liquefied, making its storage in household cylinders impractical. Instead, PNG is delivered directly through pipelines, which is why its infrastructure is predominantly urban.
LPG’s advantages include its easier storage due to lower liquefaction pressure, which allows for efficient transportation to both urban and rural settings, aided by government initiatives aimed at expanding access. The safety of LPG cylinders is ensured as they are constructed for specific pressure limits, whereas filling them with natural gas would pose risks due to the latter’s required higher pressure, which could lead to leaks or explosions.
In terms of energy efficiency, LPG offers a higher calorific value compared to natural gas, enabling quicker cooking times. When it comes to safety, LPG is heavier than air and disperses closer to the ground, allowing for faster leak detection thanks to its distinctive odor. In contrast, natural gas rises quickly into the atmosphere, complicating leak detection in closed spaces.
Looking forward, while India is enhancing its piped gas distribution networks, especially in urban areas under the jurisdiction of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board, LPG will continue to be essential, particularly due to the challenges of extending pipeline networks into rural and remote locations.