Guest Commentator: Heather James, PE, Vice President, Sanborn, Head & Associates @SanbornHead
Leading Change In The Energy Industry
The energy industry, specifically my experience with natural gas utilities, is an absolute pleasure to work in. There are always new challenges to resolve, and the operations and management teams I’ve worked with have consistently strived to do the right thing by utilizing their experience along with the industry experts they trust. This combination makes it a win-win for any engineer! As I had the benefits of training and learning from some of the best in the industry early-in and throughout my career, I was able to gain immeasurable hands-on experience in design, operations, troubleshooting, construction, and management of projects in both natural gas distribution and supplemental gas facilities such as Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). This experience provides the knowledge necessary to be a trusted industry expert, and I feel fortunate to have earned this privilege. As one of few women leaders in this industry, I do hope that we are paving the way for other female engineers to realize the opportunities available to gain experience, build confidence, and find their way to shine.
The industry is changing. Carbon Neutral is now a realistic goal, something I am not sure I would have believed over 25 years ago when I began my career serving natural gas utility and pipeline transportation companies. Carbon Neutral does not mean the elimination of natural gas or propane fuel; it means we are working to find and implement creative and effective ways to reduce and abate carbon dioxide emissions. These changes benefit our environment and offer exciting opportunities to see more renewable energy options come to fruition. It is important to understand that, although an exciting engineering endeavor, we do need to stay focused on solutions that are reliable and financially practical, and government support is key to success.
I am thrilled to continue gas utility support while also supporting roles to reduce the carbon footprint for both our utility and non-utility clients. We are assisting with evaluating options to utilize hydrogen and renewable natural gas (RNG) such as digester gas and landfill gas as a percentage of the natural gas supply. We are working to implement new technologies to improve process energy efficiency. For our non-utility clients, we are evaluating opportunities to use LNG, propane, or other fuels in lieu of current fuels with higher carbon emissions.
The Chamber supports an advanced, affordable, diversified, low-carbon energy economy. Our Greater Philadelphia Energy Action Team brings together 150+ industry leaders committed to delivering affordable energy solutions that will benefit the current families and businesses living and operating in Greater Philadelphia while attracting new development and growth opportunities.
