LNG

Fifteen Japanese companies led by the utility Tokyo Gas have launched a group called the Carbon Neutral LNG Buyers Alliance to promote the use of cleaner LNG as a penance for using such huge amounts of thermal coal.

Japanese liquefied natural gas imports edged lower last month and thermal coal shipments also declined as power demand dropped because of milder weather, though LNG imports still increased from Asia nations and Australia.

Japanese liquefied natural gas imports dropped last month and cost around 18 percent less than a year ago as the nation continued to reduce its annual cargo requirements, though Australian shipments remained substantial.