World to have almost 40,000 natural gas refuelling stations by 2026

The total number of natural gas refuelling stations in the world is expected to reach almost 39,300 sites by 2026, according to a new study by Navigant Research.

Although the low oil prices have hampered the growth of the natural gas vehicles (NVGs) sector, with crude oil prices remaining under $50 per barrel, Navigant Research expects natural gas refuelling vehicles and installations to grow over the next decade.

“Despite the decline in oil prices, stricter emissions and fuel economy regulations mean that NG remains a very attractive alternative to gasoline and diesel in many regions and vehicle applications where electrification is not a practical alternative,” says Sam Abuelsamid, senior research analyst with Navigant Research.

The number of natural gas stations, in both CNG and LNG form, is expected to grow at a rate of 4.4% each year for the next decade, according to the study.