Los Angeles County Natural Gas Company is a public utility focused on natural gas distribution, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the county. It operates a network of pipelines and maintains safety protocols, with a customer base exceeding 2 million. The company prioritizes modernization to reduce emissions and enhance reliability.

The company’s role is critical due to Los Angeles County’s high energy demand and complex infrastructure. In 2022, the county consumed approximately 1.2 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, accounting for 8% of California’s total consumption, according to the California Public Utilities Commission. Aging pipelines, some installed before 1950, pose significant risks. A 2021 study by the University of California found that 25% of LA County’s gas infrastructure is over 60 years old, leading to higher leakage rates and maintenance costs. For example, a 2020 leak in the Aliso Canyon storage field displaced 25,000 residents, underscoring the need for modernization. The company has invested $500 million since 2018 to upgrade pipelines and reduce methane emissions, aligning with California’s 2030 decarbonization targets. Additionally, regulatory pressures like Senate Bill 100, which mandates 100% renewable energy by 2045, compel the company to diversify into biogas and hydrogen blends. These efforts are supported by state grants, with $200 million allocated in 2023 for clean energy infrastructure under the California Clean Energy Act. However, challenges persist, including high upfront costs and public opposition to new projects, as seen in the 2023 delay of the proposed Westside Gas Storage Expansion. Overall, the company balances operational efficiency with environmental and regulatory demands to ensure sustainable gas service in a high-demand region.