Virginia Natural Gas celebrates 175 years of service
Company reflects on legacy of innovation, sustainability and community commitment
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – January 10th, 2025 Virginia Natural Gas (VNG) is celebrating its 175th anniversary, marking nearly two centuries of dedicated service to the communities of southeastern Virginia. Since lighting Norfolk's first gas streetlights in 1850, VNG has been a cornerstone of the community, providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable natural gas to homes and businesses.
Today, Virginia Natural Gas is more than just a utility; it is a neighbor, friend and partner in progress. The company's pipelines and infrastructure have expanded, bringing reliable and sustainable energy to more people than ever before. VNG's mission extends beyond energy provision, focusing on building a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
As one of Virginia’s oldest corporations, VNG aspires to be a responsible citizen in the communities we serve. The company supports communities through contributions that focus on children and education, environmental stewardship, military and veterans, workforce development and community enrichment. VNG aims to create a positive, lasting impact through educational initiatives, community support and sustainability efforts.
Innovation continues to be a driving force for VNG. The company is continually seeking ways to improve and adapt to customer needs, from fueling advanced fleet vehicles with compressed natural gas to incorporating Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) and 100% Next Generation Natural Gas for residential and small commercial customers into its supply. VNG's commitment to clean energy and sustainability ensures it meets today's needs while paving the way for future generations.
Through pipeline modernization efforts, VNG has reduced greenhouse gas emissions from its distribution system by more than 35% and upgraded more than 575 miles of pipeline across its service area, ensuring a safe and reliable energy future. The company continues to work to achieve its goal of net zero direct greenhouse gas emissions from operations by 2050.
"As we celebrate 175 years, our focus remains on providing our customers with excellent service, while leveraging innovation and sustainability to ensure the future of the communities we are honored to serve," said Shannon Pierce, President of Virginia Natural Gas. "Thank you for welcoming us into your homes and businesses. Here’s to another 175 years of fueling the future, together.”
About Virginia Natural Gas
Virginia Natural Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies under Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO). Serving over 310,000 customers in southeast Virginia, Virginia Natural Gas was again named a Top Workplace in 2024. The company has earned recognition for its safety, reliability and customer focus among natural gas service providers, and was named 2024 LDC of the Year by the VA Dept of Energy and VA Oil & Gas Association. For more information, visit virginianaturalgas.com and connect with the company on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About Southern Company Gas
Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), America’s premier energy company. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.2 million natural gas utility customers through its regulated distribution companies in four states and approximately 600,000 retail customers through its companies that market natural gas. Other nonutility businesses include investments in interstate pipelines and ownership and operation of natural gas storage facilities. For more information, visit southerncompanygas.com.
Media Contact:
Morgan Chase
Office: 757-616-7510 | Cell: 757-725-6916
mchase@southernco.com | www.virginianaturalgas.com/company/press-room