RENEWABLE ENERGY INTEGRATION IN THE U.S. NATURAL GAS SECTOR: CORPORATE STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY DEVELOPMENT IN THE HEATING INDUSTRY

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Degree type
Master of Environmental Studies (MES)
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Discipline
Environmental Studies
Subject
renewable energy integration, natural gas decarbonization, urban heating transition, renewable natural gas (RNG), hydrogen energy, district energy systems, electrification of heating, corporate sustainability strategies, eSteam technology, green thermal energy, Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW), Vicinity Energy, low-carbon heating, energy policy and regulation, urban energy infrastructure, municipal energy transition, energy justice and affordability, biogas utilization, thermal energy networks,
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2025
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Wentao Lyu
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Abstract

As the urban environment faces increasing pressure to decarbonize its heating sector, the integration of renewable energy into natural gas infrastructure has become a crucial challenge. This research explores the feasibility of green heating solutions within the scope of the city of Philadelphia, with key stakeholders as case studies, including Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) and Vicinity Energy. By examining the potential of technologies such as eSteam, renewable natural gas (RNG), and district energy systems, this paper assesses the practical and regulatory challenges of transitioning away from natural gas while maintaining energy reliability and affordability. Additionally, this study evaluates the financial and infrastructural barriers to large-scale electrification, considering grid capacity constraints and economic viability under existing policy frameworks. Through a regulatory and economic lens, this research provides insights into how Philadelphia can navigate the energy transition while ensuring equitable and cost-effective heating solutions for all residents.

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Gieré, Reto
Date of degree
2025-05-19
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