Russia’s Gazprom continues to expand its natural gas vehicle (NGV) business both home and abroad, with of one of Europe’s largest gas refuelling stations opening in Moscow on Tuesday.

The company said in a statement it commissioned two new stations in the Russian capital, bringing the region’s network to seven facilities, Kallanish Energy reports.

The station at the intersection of Zenitchikov and Dubravnaya streets is the biggest in Europe with a capacity of 29.8 million cubic meters per year. With 12 filling pumps, the facility has a daily throughput of 1,600 vehicles.

“Natural gas as a vehicle fuel is the key to environmental friendliness, efficiency and safety. The transport sector of any world capital, including Moscow, needs them,” said Viktor Zubkov, chairman of Gazprom Gazomotornoye Toplivo.

He added the use of natural gas (methane) is helping to meet the ambitious goal of reducing emissions, saving cities from smoke and improving their quality life.

Gazprom sees the production and sale of natural gas as a vehicle fuel as “strategic,” as it creates demand for its core product and reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional fuels. It’s developing a NGV market domestically and internationally, particularly in China.

The Russian giant defends methane is “the most economical and environmentally friendly motor fuel,” while “methane-powered vehicles have proven their reliability many times during long international motor rallies and sporting events.”

The second gas filling station opened in Moscow yesterday is located on Podolsk Cadets street. Its 8.9 Mmcm/y capacity can service 480 vehicles a day.

This post appeared first on Kallanish Energy News.