NAPERVILLE, Ill., Aug. 20 /CSRwire/ - Nicor Gas received the Southern Gas Association's (SGA) 2009 Environmental Excellence Technology Award for a project that helps save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through replacing "high bleed" pneumatic controls throughout the company’s pipeline system .

"Nicor Gas is committed to being a good steward of the environment. We continually examine our system to look for ways that we can implement improvements, like the "high bleed" pneumatic controls replacement program, that provide value while allowing us to fulfill Our Mission of delivering safe and reliable natural gas service. We are proud of our replacement program's environmental benefits and honored to be recognized with this SGA Environmental Excellence Technology Award," said Rocco D'Alessandro, Executive Vice President for Nicor Gas.

Pneumatic controls manage both the pressure and volume of natural gas flowing through the system. During 2008, Nicor Gas' replacement of the "high bleed" pneumatic controls has resulted in an approximate emissions reduction of 51,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). Since 1997, Nicor Gas has replaced a total of 178 pneumatic valves, which has resulted in the reduction of CO2e emissions by nearly 240,000 metric tons and 600 million cubic feet of methane.

The SGA's Environmental Excellence Award was established in 2005 to recognize member companies that have made a significant impact in protecting the environment through utilization of innovative environmental practices. SGA award recipients are honored for programs and initiatives that help reduce waste, save money, and contribute to the industry's environmental protection efforts, as well as benefit the health and welfare of the nation.

For more information about Nicor Gas and its environmental initiatives, visit the company Web site at www.nicorgas.com.

Nicor Gas is one of the nation's largest gas distribution companies. Owned by Nicor Inc. (NYSE: GAS) a holding company, Nicor Gas has provided safe and reliable natural gas services for over 50 years. The Company serves more than two million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information on Nicor Gas, visit www.nicorgas.com.

NICOR Inc.

NICOR Inc.

Nicor Inc. (NYSE: GAS) is a holding company and is a member of the Standard & Poor's 500 Index. Its primary business is Nicor Gas, one of the nation's largest natural gas distribution companies. Nicor owns Tropical Shipping, a containerized shipping business serving the Caribbean region and the Bahamas. In addition, the company owns and has an equity interest in several energy-related businesses.

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