SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NATURAL GAS DISCHARGE GENERATOR

Abstract

This document provides systems and methods for using a natural gas discharge generator at a natural gas regulating station. The system uses the gas discharge generator to generate electricity by converting high-pressure inlet gas into low-pressure outlet gas, which in turn creates low-temperature outlet gas. The generated electricity can power a data center. Heat can be transferred, via a heat exchanger, from the dielectric fluid in the data center to the natural gas before it enters the gas discharge generator. Heat can also be transferred, using a second heat exchanger, from the dielectric fluid to the natural gas at the outlet of the gas discharge generator. This heat exchange can substantially cool the dielectric fluid for transmission to the data center and can heat the low-temperature outlet gas for transmission to an end user.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NATURAL GAS DISCHARGE GENERATOR Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority from the provisional application having U.S. Serial No. 63 / 270884, entitled LETDOWN GENERATOR FOR DATA CENTER, filed on October 22, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Natural gas is often transported between various locations around the world through gas pipelines. Natural gas is commonly transported at high pressures for efficiency, and compressor stations are used to maintain the proper pressure throughout the natural gas pipeline and assist in the natural gas transportation process. The pressure at which natural gas is transported in transmission pipelines is often too high for the distribution pipeline system that serves end users. Natural gas unloading / pressure reducing stations, also known as regulating stations, use natural gas heaters, valves, filters, and regulators to safely reduce gas pressure from high pressure to a low pressure suitable for end use. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION This Brief Description is provided to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are described in more detail below in the Detailed Description. This Brief Description is not intended to identify key factors or essential characteristics of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. One or more of the techniques and systems described herein may be used to reduce energy loss or harness energy released at natural gas regulation stations using a natural gas offloading generator. The techniques and systems described herein may be used to power and cool components of an immersive data center. In addition, one or more of the techniques and systems described herein may also be used to regulate (e.g., decrease or offload / reduce) natural gas pressures and provide heat to the natural gas stream. For example, a natural gas offloading generator may be used at a natural gas regulating station to harness the energy released by the regulating station during the offloading / reduction (depressurization) process of natural gas. The offloading generator may generate electricity to power an immersion data center that transfers heat from the data center to a natural gas stream as a form of preheating or postheating in heat exchangers to reduce natural gas consumption at the regulating station and thereby reduce Scope 1 emissions. In another implementation, the offloading generator may provide renewable energy credits that can be used to help reduce Scope 2 emissions through the use of carbon offsets. In one implementation, a natural gas system comprises a high pressure natural gas supply, an offloading generator comprising an inlet configured to accept a portion of natural gas from the high pressure natural gas supply, the natural gas entering the inlet at a first temperature and a first pressure, and an outlet configured to emit the natural gas from the offloading generator at a second pressure lower than the first pressure and a second temperature lower than the first temperature, wherein the offloading generator is configured to reduce the pressure of the natural gas and generate electricity, a first heat exchanger in fluid connection with the inlet of the offloading generator, the first heat exchanger configured to transfer heat to the natural gas, and an electric heater configured to provide heat to the natural gas via the first heat exchanger,where the electric heater is powered by electricity generated by the discharge generator. In one implementation, the first heat exchanger is located upstream of the discharge generator and is configured to transfer heat from the electric heater to natural gas before the natural gas enters the inlet of the discharge generator. In one implementation, the natural gas system further comprises a second heat exchanger located downstream of the discharge generator, the second heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from the electric heater to the natural gas after the natural gas exits the outlet of the discharge generator. In one implementation, the natural gas system is configured to heat the natural gas above a predetermined temperature setpoint. In one embodiment, the natural gas system further comprises a refrigerant circuit filled with a refrigerant, the refrigerant circuit being configured to circulate the refrigerant between the electric heater and at least one of the first heat exchanger or the second heat exchanger. In one implementation, the natural gas system further comprises an immersion data center comprising a body filled with a dielectric fluid, wherein at least one electrical component is at least partially submerged in the dielectric fluid and the immersion data center is powered by electricity generated by the discharge generator. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi In one implementation, an amount of power generated from the off-load generator is greater than the power consumption of the data center, thus creating a power surplus, the system being configured to send the surplus power to the electric heater such that the surplus power is converted into heat. In one implementation, the natural gas system further comprises a refrigerant circuit filled with a refrigerant, the refrigerant circuit being configured to circulate the refrigerant between the data center and the first heat exchanger. In one implementation, the natural gas system further comprises a third heat exchanger located at the data center, the third heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from the data center dielectric fluid to the refrigerant. In one implementation, the electric heater is in fluid connection with the coolant circuit and is located between the first heat exchanger and the data center. In one implementation, natural gas is heated entirely by heating provided by the data center or electric heater. In one implementation, a method may be provided for controlling a natural gas offloading station, the natural gas offloading station comprising a high pressure natural gas supply, an offloading generator comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet configured to accept a portion of natural gas from the high pressure natural gas supply and an outlet configured to output the natural gas at a lower temperature and pressure, wherein the offloading generator is configured to reduce the pressure of the natural gas and generate electricity, a first heat exchanger in fluid connection with the inlet of the offloading generator, the first heat exchanger configured to transfer heat to the natural gas, and an electric heater powered by electricity generated by the offloading generator and configured to provide heat to the natural gas via the first heat exchanger,wherein the method comprises: monitoring a temperature of natural gas exiting the discharge generator outlet, determining that the temperature of the natural gas is below a predetermined temperature set point, and upon determining that the natural gas is below the predetermined temperature set point, directing an increased amount of electricity from the discharge generator to the electric heater to provide additional heat to the natural gas. In one implementation, the first heat exchanger is located upstream of the discharge generator and is configured to transfer the heat generated from the electric heater to natural gas before the natural gas enters the inlet of the discharge generator. In one implementation, the method further comprises determining that the first heat exchanger is operating at its maximum capacity, determining that the heater Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi electric is operating at maximum capacity and upon determining that the natural gas is below the predetermined temperature set point and that the first heat exchanger and electric heater are operating at maximum capacity, activate a gas heater to provide additional heat to the natural gas. In one implementation, the method further comprises determining that the temperature of the natural gas is above the predetermined temperature set point, and upon determining that the natural gas is above the predetermined temperature set point, deactivating the gas heater. In one implementation, the method further comprises determining that the gas heater is disabled and that the temperature of the natural gas is above the predetermined temperature set point, and upon making the determination that the gas heater is disabled and the natural gas is above the predetermined temperature set point, reducing power to the electric heater and redirecting power to ground. In one implementation, a method is provided for controlling a natural gas offloading station, the natural gas offloading station comprising a high pressure natural gas supply, an immersion data center, comprising a body filled with a dielectric fluid, wherein one or more electrical components are at least partially submerged in the dielectric fluid, a discharge generator comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet configured to accept a portion of natural gas from the high pressure natural gas supply and an outlet configured to emit the natural gas at a lower temperature and pressure, wherein the discharge generator is configured to reduce the pressure of the natural gas and generate electricity to power at least a portion of the immersion data center, a first heat exchanger in fluid connection with the inlet of the discharge generator,the first heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from the dielectric fluid of the data center to natural gas, and an in-line heater located between the first heat exchanger and the data center, the in-line heater powered by electricity generated by the offloading generator and configured to provide heat to the natural gas before the inlet of the offloading generator, wherein the method comprises: monitoring a power generated from the offloading generator and a power consumption of the data center, determining whether the power generated from the offloading generator is greater than the power consumption of the data center, upon determining that the power generated from the offloading generator is greater than the power consumption of the center,increasing the power consumption of the data center by placing at least one of the one or more electrical components into a higher power consumption state or by turning on at least one of the one or more electrical components. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi In one implementation, the method further comprises determining that the data center is operating at maximum power consumption, wherein the data center is determined to be operating at maximum power consumption if the power consumption of the data center cannot be increased to match the power generated by the off-load generator, and upon determining that the data center is operating at maximum power consumption, redirecting excess power to the in-line heater or ground. In an implementation, surplus power is calculated in real time as the power generated by the off-load generator minus the power consumed by the data center. In one implementation, the method further comprises determining whether the power generated from the offloading generator is less than the power consumption of the data center, and upon determining that the power generated from the offloading generator is less than the power consumption of the center, decreasing the power consumption of the data center by placing at least one of the one or more electrical components in a reduced power consumption state. To achieve the foregoing and related purposes, the following description and accompanying drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of only a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects may be employed. Other aspects, advantages, and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS What is disclosed in this document may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, and will be described in detail in this description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and in which: FIGURE 1 is an exemplary implementation of a typical natural gas pipeline system as described herein. FIGURE 2 is an exemplary implementation of a typical natural gas regulating or offloading station as described herein. FIGURE 3 is an exemplary implementation of a decarbonized natural gas offloading or regulating station utilizing an offloading generator and data center system as described herein. FIGURE 4 is an exemplary implementation of a discharge generator and data center system for natural gas regulation as described herein. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi FIGURE 5 is another exemplary implementation of a discharge generator and data center system for natural gas regulation as described herein. FIGURE 6 is an exemplary implementation of a modular and portable gas discharge generator system as described herein. FIGURE 7 is an exemplary control system that may be used to control any of the implementations of a natural gas regulating or offloading station as described herein. FIGURE 8 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a method of heating natural gas using a gas discharge generator. FIGURE 9 is an example block diagram illustrating a method for matching the power load of a data center to the power output of an off-load generator. FIGURE 10 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of a discharge generator and data center system for natural gas regulation as described herein. FIGURE 11 illustrates a piping diagram of the discharge generator and data center system illustrated in FIGURE 10. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, in which similar reference numerals are generally used to refer to similar elements. In the following description, for explanatory purposes, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a complete understanding of the claimed subject matter. It may be evident, however, that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate the description of the claimed subject matter. Natural gas is a fossil fuel used for many industrial, commercial, and domestic purposes. One of the most common methods for transporting natural gas is by pipeline, which requires high-pressure natural gas pressurization. Compressor stations and gauge stations are located along the pipeline to ensure adequate pressurization for natural gas transportation. Compressor stations compress the natural gas using a turbine, engine, or machine, and gauge stations are installed along the pipeline to monitor the pressure and flow of the natural gas to verify performance and detect leaks. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi The pressure at which natural gas is transported is often too high for end-users to utilize. Therefore, natural gas must pass through natural gas regulating stations before finally being transported downstream to an end-user. Natural gas regulating stations reduce the pressure of natural gas to a pressure suitable for end-use and for subsequent transportation to downstream distribution systems. During the depressurization process, regulating stations release energy in the form of pressure and heat. This energy is often not accounted for or otherwise utilized, resulting in significant energy losses and CO2 emissions. This paper discloses several methods and systems that can improve the efficiency and reduce emissions of natural gas regulating stations. FIGURE 1 illustrates a typical natural gas pipeline system 10. The system 10 may comprise a main natural gas pipeline 12, at least one compressor station 14, and at least one metering station 16. The system 10 may further comprise at least one natural gas regulating station (offloading station) 18 that feeds a natural gas distribution line 90. In this implementation, natural gas is pressurized at the compressor station 14 and transported along the pipeline 12. The natural gas regulating (or offloading) station 18 receives at least a portion of the high-pressure natural gas from the main pipeline 12. The regulating station 18 reduces the pressure of the natural gas to a pressure suitable for distribution via the distribution line 90 to end users. As described above, energy and emissions are released at the regulating station 18 during the depressurization or offloading process. FIGURE 2 illustrates in more detail a typical natural gas regulating or offloading station 18. The station 18 may receive high pressure natural gas from a natural gas pipeline 12, and the natural gas may be transmitted to an end user downstream of the distribution line 90. The natural gas regulating station 18 (also referred to as a natural gas pressure unloading station) may include a filter 20, a preheater 22, a safety shut-off valve 24, a regulating valve 26, a safety relief valve 28, a flow meter or counter 30, and an odorizer system 32. However, as described above, the natural gas regulating station 18 may be inefficient, may waste energy, and may generate CO2 emissions during the offloading or depressurization process. In an effort to reduce emissions, pipeline operators and companies can work toward achieving net-zero carbon dioxide emissions. Net-zero emissions can be achieved by reducing direct and indirect carbon dioxide emissions, by reducing direct natural gas use, by producing and retiring carbon offsets, or a combination of approaches. For example, Natural gas companies can work to reduce their emissions (e.g., decarbonize them) in a variety of ways. This may include reducing natural gas leaks and blowdowns, reducing natural gas-emitting equipment, deploying renewable natural gas to replace natural gas, implementing carbon capture projects, developing renewable energy generation, and the like. Natural gas companies can also voluntarily report their emissions as Scope 1 (direct fossil fuel use), Scope 2 (indirect fossil fuel use through purchased energy), or Scope 3 (indirect value chain emissions). Natural gas regulating stations, such as regulating station 18, may emit multiple forms of greenhouse gases (e.g., in the form of Scope 1, Scope 2, or Scope 3 emissions). For example, preheater 22 and relief valve 28 may emit Scope 1 emissions. Electricity used to power the controls or meter (e.g., flow meter) for station 18 may produce Scope 2 emissions. Implementations described herein describe various methods and systems that may be used to upgrade natural gas regulating stations such as regulating station 18. The implementations may help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and may help achieve net-zero emissions from the regulating stations. In one implementation, a natural gas offloading generator (GLG) may be used at a natural gas regulating station 18 to harness the energy produced by the station during the depressurization or offloading process. The energy produced by the offloading generator may be used to help reduce a company's emissions by reducing direct natural gas use, through the production and retirement of carbon offsets, or a combination of approaches. In other examples, the offloading generator may generate electricity to power an immersive data center located near the regulating station. Low-grade generators may also increase efficiency and profitability by qualifying for state and federal tax credits, infrastructure grants, renewable energy credits, and other incentives. For example, a gas discharge generator operates on the flow of gas (e.g., natural gas) and can produce electricity using the natural gas flow. The discharge generator may use a flow turbine or a helical screw, or an in-line turboexpander, for example, to convert high-pressure gas to lower-pressure gas, which in turn can generate electricity. The conversion of the high-pressure inlet gas to low-pressure outlet gas can also result in a significant decrease in gas temperature. This is an example of adiabatic expansion and is called the Joule-Thompson effect. In other words, high-pressure, high-temperature natural gas can enter Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi to the gas discharge generator, and the gas can exit as natural gas at a lower pressure and temperature. This gas typically requires preheating or postheating before being delivered to the end user. It should be noted that preheating can refer to heating the natural gas before the pressure drop or before the discharge generator, and postheating can refer to heating the natural gas after the pressure drop or after the discharge generator. FIGURE 3 illustrates an exemplary implementation of an enhanced natural gas system utilizing a natural gas discharge generator. System 100 may include a natural gas main line 12, a discharge system 118, a filter 120, a gas heater 122, a safety shutoff valve 124, a regulating valve 126, a regulating valve 128, a meter 130, and an odorizer system 132. System 100 may further include a GLG 104, safety valves 134 and 136, a data center 102, and an in-line heater 186. In one implementation, data center 102 may be an immersion data center. Natural gas system 100 may emit fewer greenhouse gases and may be more efficient compared to system 10. For example, system 100 may reduce Scope 1 emissions by reducing or eliminating the need for a typical gas preheater such as gas preheater 122.In system 100, preheater 122 is shown, but it should be appreciated that in other implementations, the gas-fired preheater 122 may be eliminated entirely. Typical natural gas regulating stations, such as station 18, require a preheater or postheater to increase the temperature of the natural gas prior to distribution to an end user (e.g., via distribution line 90). As described below, use of the GLG 104 may mitigate or eliminate the need for a typical preheater or postheater, which may reduce emissions. For example, the GLG 104 may utilize at least one heat exchanger to transfer heat from the data center 102 to the natural gas, and at least one heat exchanger may preheat the natural gas prior to the pressure drop caused by the regulating valve 126.Alternatively, or in addition, at least one heat exchanger may heat the natural gas downstream of the GLG 104 before transmitting it to an end user via the distribution line 190. The system 100 may further include an in-line electric heater 186. The in-line heater 186 may heat the natural gas and may be powered by electricity generated by the GLM 104. The in-line heater 186 may be in-line between the GLM 104 and the data center 102 such that the in-line heater 186 may provide heat to the natural gas in addition to the heat exchanger. In certain instances, the in-line heater 186 may provide all of the heating to the natural gas. For example, while the data center 102 is shut down or while the data center 102 is in the process of being turned on, the in-line heater 186 may be in-line between the GLM 104 and the data center 102. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi line 186 may use electricity produced by the GLG 104 to heat the natural gas. As the data center 102 is powered up or reaches operating capacity, the heat exchangers may provide heating in place of the in-line heater 186 (e.g., heat transferred from the data center to the natural gas through the heat exchangers with no additional heat provided by the in-line heater). It should be appreciated that the system may alternate between the heat exchanger(s) and the in-line heater 186 as needed (e.g., alternating the heat provided by the in-line heater). The alternating may further include routing the electricity produced from the GLG 104 between the data center 102 or the in-line heater 186.In other implementations, a typical gas-fired heater, such as gas preheater 122, may still be used, however, the preheating or postheating provided by gas preheater 122 may be reduced or eliminated by resorting to heating provided by GLG 104 or in-line heater 186. In another example, Scope 2 emissions may be reduced or offset by renewable energy credits created by converting wasted pressure into usable or renewable energy. This may be achieved because the GLG 104 converts high-pressure natural gas into electricity. As described in more detail below, the electricity may be used to power a data center such as data center 102. The generated electricity may also be released to an electrical grid, used to power the in-line heater 186, or any other suitable use. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIGURE 3, the safety relief valve 28 of system 10 may be replaced with a regulating valve 128 to reduce Scope 1 emissions. Emissions may be further reduced if the regulating valve 128 is a non-vented gas regulator, for example. A non-vented gas regulator may reduce CO2 emissions. As described above, the discharge generator 104 may generate electricity to power the immersion data center 102 and / or the inline heater 186. The system 100 may also utilize the low temperature natural gas exiting the discharge generator 104 to cool the dielectric fluid of the immersion data center 102. In this implementation, the heat produced by the data center 102 may be used to raise the temperature of the natural gas rather than the heat being lost to the atmosphere. The immersion data center 102 may utilize the discharge generator 104 in conjunction with single phase cooling, two phase cooling, or any other suitable configuration to transfer heat from the data center 102 to the natural gas. It should also be appreciated that while the systems disclosed herein relate to a data center 102, other suitable systems may be used in conjunction with or in conjunction with the data center 102. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi location of data center 102. For example, system 100 may include a natural gas discharge generator 104 for powering other suitable equipment or systems. Other suitable equipment or systems may include greenhouses, various lighting systems, hydrolyzers, air-cooled data centers, air conditioning units, other forms of heaters such as electric heaters, battery charging stations, etc. One of skill in the art will understand that power generated from discharge generator 104 may be used to power any form of system and that data center 102 is only one exemplary implementation of use. Turning to FIGURE 4, an exemplary implementation of an enhanced natural gas system 200 is shown. System 200 may comprise a data center 202, a gas discharge generator 204, a first heat exchanger 206, a second heat exchanger 208, an in-line heater 286, and a communication system 210. Data center 202 may be an immersion data center comprising various electrical components 212 immersed in a dielectric fluid. Gas discharge generator 204 may be integrated as part of a natural gas regulation system similar to system 10 or 100. In this implementation, discharge generator 204 operates by receiving a supply of high pressure natural gas at an inlet of discharge generator 204. The natural gas flows through a turbo expander and exits discharge generator 104 at an outlet at a lower pressure and temperature than at the inlet.During the process, electricity can be generated and heat from data center 102 can be transferred to natural gas via at least one heat exchanger. For example, a data center is a location or facility used to house various computer systems, components, and associated hardware that may be used for storing or hosting data, applications, computing services, and other functions. Physical components of the data center, such as servers, can generate a significant amount of heat during operation. Therefore, data centers typically use cooling systems to maintain the temperature of the data center and its various components. Cooling systems allow the data center to operate at acceptable temperature levels at all hours of the day to ensure that data center components do not fail due to overheating. Data centers come in many shapes and sizes and can include various computer systems, hardware, and other components. In general, data centers can provide storage, host servers, run applications, and perform other similar computing functions. The servers in a data center use electricity to perform these functions, and that electricity is converted into work and heat as a byproduct. However, what all data centers have in common is the need to manage this heat. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi and maintain a safe and effective temperature for the data center and associated components. High temperatures can lead to failure, damage, or poor operating speeds. Cooling systems can be provided to ensure that data centers and their hardware components remain at acceptable temperatures. Cooling systems may include fans, various heat transfer solutions, HVAC systems, outdoor air circulation, or other solutions. It should be noted that cooling systems in data centers may also use additional electricity beyond the electricity usage and power requirements of the computers or servers. Immersion data center cooling systems cool data center hardware components by immersing them in a body or enclosure of thermally conductive dielectric fluid. Typically, heat is transferred from the hot data center components to the dielectric fluid through direct contact. The dielectric fluid is cooled using a suitable medium, such as a heat exchanger. In a dry heat exchanger, as is typically used, at least a portion of the heat can be lost to the atmosphere. It should be noted that immersion data center cooling can take the form of single-phase cooling or two-phase cooling, among others. For example, single-phase cooling may utilize an open-loop data center rack (e.g., a server rack) with a circulating dielectric fluid. Server components may be immersed in the dielectric fluid within the rack such that heat is transferred from the server components to the dielectric fluid through direct physical contact. The dielectric fluid may circulate between the server rack and a cooling mechanism separate from the server rack. The cooling mechanism, such as a heat exchanger, may cool the dielectric before the dielectric fluid circulates back to the server rack to restart the cooling process. In a dry heat exchanger, at least a portion of the heat may be lost to the atmosphere. Two-phase cooling, for example, can use a closed-loop or sealed data center rack (e.g., a server rack). Like a single-phase cooling setup, server components can be immersed in dielectric fluid within the rack so that heat is transferred from the server components to the dielectric fluid. However, in two-phase cooling, as heat is transferred from the hot data center components to the dielectric fluid, the dielectric fluid can evaporate (e.g., change phase to gas). The evaporated gas flows to the top of the rack where it is re-cooled by a heat exchanger or condenser unit. When the gas is sufficiently cooled, it returns, in the form of Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi liquid, to the rest of the fluid in the frame. The heat exchanger can be a water-filled condenser coil, a plate heat exchanger, or any suitable configuration. Similarly, in a dry heat exchanger, at least a portion of the heat can be lost to the atmosphere. With respect to the data center 202 of the system 200, heat may be transferred from the electrical components 212 to the dielectric fluid through direct physical contact (e.g., the components 212 may be immersed in dielectric fluid). In two-phase cooling applications, for example, the immersion data center 202 may comprise a heat exchanger for transferring heat from the dielectric fluid to a separate closed loop of coolant (cooling system). Heat from the coolant may be transferred, using the first heat exchanger 206, to the natural gas supply at the inlet of the discharge generator 204. The natural gas may then flow through the discharge generator 204 from the inlet to an outlet to generate electricity. Natural gas exiting the discharge generator outlet 204 may exit at a lower pressure and temperature. Using heat exchanger 208, additional heat may be transferred from the refrigerant to the low-temperature natural gas at the discharge generator outlet 204. In this manner, the refrigerant may be cooled a second time before being recirculated back to the immersion data center 202. In other words, heat may be transferred from the electrical components 212 to the dielectric fluid and then to a separate closed loop of refrigerant. The heat from the refrigerant may be transferred to the natural gas at the discharge generator inlet 204. The cooled natural gas at the discharge generator outlet 204 may be used to cool the refrigerant a second time before returning to a heat exchanger in the immersion data center 202. It should be appreciated that the implementation described above may also be used for single-phase cooling. For example, heat may be transferred from the electrical components 212 to the dielectric fluid through direct physical contact. In single-phase cooling applications, the immersion data center 202 may circulate the dielectric fluid or other suitable coolant between the data center and the gas discharge generator 204. Heat from the dielectric fluid may be transferred, using the first heat exchanger 206, to the natural gas supply at the inlet of the discharge generator 204. The natural gas may then flow through the discharge generator 204 from the inlet to an outlet to generate a DC electrical current. The natural gas exiting the outlet of the discharge generator 204 may exit at a lower pressure and temperature.Using the second heat exchanger 208, additional heat can be transferred from the dielectric fluid to the low temperature natural gas at the outlet of the discharge generator 204. In this way, the dielectric fluid can be cooled a second time before returning to the data center. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi immersion 202, and the temperature of the gas exiting the discharge generator 204 may be increased. In certain implementations, the system 200 may include only one heat exchanger (e.g., the first heat exchanger 206 or the second heat exchanger 208). It should be appreciated that the system 200 may accordingly operate with one or both of the heat exchangers. In other implementations, any possible number of heat exchangers may be used to preheat or postheat the natural gas. It should be noted that the coolant used in the immersion data center system 202 may be any suitable liquid coolant. For example, the coolant may be water, glycol, a mixture of water and glycol, deionized water, oil, dielectric fluids, polyalphaolefin, or other suitable coolants. FIGURE 5 illustrates another implementation of an exemplary system 300 for operating a data center 302. The system 300 may be similar to the system 200 in all respects except as indicated herein, and like reference numerals may be used throughout to indicate similar features. The system 300 may comprise a data center 302, a gas discharge generator 304, a first heat exchanger 306, a second heat exchanger 308, an in-line heater 386, a communication system 310, a high pressure natural gas supply line 12, and a pump 360. The data center 302 may be an immersion data center. The discharge generator 304 may be powered by the natural gas supply line 12 feeding an inlet 364 of the discharge generator 304.Natural gas may flow through the gas discharge generator 304 and exit the discharge generator 304 at an outlet 366 of the discharge generator 304 at a lower pressure and temperature than at the inlet 364. The immersion data center 302 may comprise a body of dielectric fluid 380, various electrical components 312 suspended in the dielectric fluid 380, a heat exchanger 382, ​​and a closed loop 338 of coolant circulated with the pump 360. The heat exchangers 306, 308, 382 may be any suitable type of heat exchanger. For example, the heat exchangers 306, 308, 382 may be a plate heat exchanger, a shell and tube heat exchanger, a plate and shell heat exchanger, an adiabatic wheel heat exchanger, a plate and fin heat exchanger, a finned tube heat exchanger, a pillow plate heat exchanger, or any other suitable heat exchanger. In one implementation, the discharge generator 304 may generate electricity for the immersive data center 302 and may also be used to cool components 312 of the immersive data center 302. Electricity may also be used to power the Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi inline heater 386. The discharge generator 304 may produce DC electrical current by the flow of high pressure natural gas from the natural gas source 12. The discharge generator 304 may utilize a flow turbine or a helical screw, for example, to convert high pressure gas from the natural gas source 12 to lower pressure gas, which in turn may generate DC current. Thus, the high pressure natural gas may enter the inlet 364 and the gas may exit as a lower pressure gas through the outlet 366. A steady flow of natural gas from the inlet 364, through the discharge generator 304, and then out the outlet 366 may produce a steady flow of DC electrical current. It should be appreciated, however, that the produced DC current may be converted to any suitable form, voltage, or current output. For example, the DC current may be converted to AC current using an inverter.The voltage of the electricity produced can also be increased or decreased by a transformer. As described above, gas discharge generators produce energy by harnessing the energy generated by the flow and / or pressure drop of natural gas. The pressure drop between inlet 364 and outlet 366 of gas discharge generator 304 can cause a significant temperature drop (e.g., adiabatic expansion referred to as the Joule-Thompson effect). In most cases, the temperature drop is too drastic for transmission of the natural gas to locations downstream of the discharge generator (e.g., via distribution line 390). Therefore, typical natural gas regulating stations or discharge stations (such as regulating station 18) incorporate a secondary form of heating to heat the natural gas prior to transmission to end users.The secondary form of heating may consist of a preheater located before the pressure drop or a postheater located after the pressure drop. For example, see preheater 22 of system 10. In some examples, preheating or postheating may be accomplished by flaring a portion of the off-gas to heat a water bath. The water bath may be used to heat the remaining gas stream to a temperature suitable for transmission downstream from the station (e.g., via distribution line 390). This typical gas heating process may waste energy and produce emissions (e.g., scope 1 emissions). Therefore, typical gas heating by a preheater or postheater may be undesirable.Furthermore, it should be noted that in this application, typical, CO2-emitting, or undesirable methods of preheating or postheating natural gas refer to those preheating or postheating methods that waste energy or produce emissions. In most cases, these methods of preheating or postheating include burning natural gas (e.g., to gas; Scope 1 emissions) or using grid electricity (Scope 2 emissions). Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi In one implementation, the use of a natural gas offloading generator, such as generator 304, may eliminate or mitigate the need for CO2-emitting natural gas preheating or postheating methods as described above. That is, rather than relying on typical forms of preheating or postheating, the offloading generator 304 may transfer heat from the data center 302 to the natural gas via at least one heat exchanger. Or, the inline heater 386 may be used to provide heat to the natural gas. This may reduce the need for preheating or postheating using CO2-emitting methods. In some embodiments, the need for a traditional preheater or postheater may be eliminated entirely by the use of the offloading generator 304.Instead, the natural gas may be heated via the first heat exchanger 306, the second heat exchanger 308, the in-line electric heater 386, or any other suitable means. It should be appreciated that the in-line electric heater 386 may be powered by electricity generated by the discharge generator 304 to reduce emissions. Specifically, the heat exchanger 308 may transfer heat from the coolant or dielectric fluid 380 to natural gas exiting the outlet 366 of the discharge generator 304. The coolant may be sufficiently cooled and circulated back to the immersion data center 302. The natural gas may be sufficiently heated and transmitted downstream via the distribution line 390 to an end user or a natural gas distribution company, for example. Because the natural gas is heated using the first heat exchanger 306, the second heat exchanger 308, or the in-line heater 386, secondary forms of heating that emit CO2 may not be required for the system 300.For example, a natural gas-fired preheater or postheater may not be required to heat the gas prior to its delivery to end users via distribution line 390, thereby reducing or eliminating scope one emissions and decarbonizing the gas regulation or turndown process. In other examples, the use of a traditional preheater or postheater may still be employed, but the overall usage of such heaters may be reduced by the heating provided by the first heat exchanger 306, the second heat exchanger 308, or the in-line heater 386. It should be appreciated that a control system may be programmed to alternate between forms of preheating and / or postheating as required by the real-time requirements of the gas pipeline. This is described in detail below with respect to diagram 600. It should also be appreciated that while the in-line heater 386 is illustrated as being located between the first heat exchanger 306 and the data center 302, the in-line heater may be located at any suitable location. For example, the in-line heater 386 may be located between the second heat exchanger 308 and the data center 302 or Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi between the first heat exchanger 306 and the second heat exchanger 308. In other implementations, the in-line heater 386 may be located along the natural gas distribution line 390, either upstream or downstream of the discharge generator 302. For example, the in-line heater (or any other suitable electric heater) may be located near, or may replace, a typical gas heater, such as the gas heater 22. There may also be multiple in-line heaters 386 in any suitable location and combination of locations as listed above. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that although system 300 is illustrated with a first heat exchanger 306 and a second heat exchanger 308, system 300 may accordingly operate with either a first heat exchanger 306 or a second heat exchanger 308 without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The heat exchangers may also be located upstream or downstream of discharge generator 304 as determined by good engineering judgment. In still other implementations, any suitable number of heat exchangers may be utilized to achieve desired results. For example, a system such as system 300 may utilize two upstream heat exchangers 306 and one downstream heat exchanger 308. An in-line heater such as in-line heater 306 may be positioned upstream or downstream of the heat exchangers without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In one implementation, natural gas from high pressure line 12 may be at a first pressure and a first temperature, illustrated at a location 340 upstream of heat exchanger 306. The first natural gas pressure at location 340 may be 2.41 MPa (350 PSI), and the first natural gas temperature may be 12.77°C (55 degrees F). However, it should be appreciated that the first natural gas pressure may be within a range of 2.24 MPa and 2.58 MPa (325 PSI and 375 PSI), and the first natural gas temperature may be within a range of 7.22°C and 18.33°C (45 and 65 degrees F). In this implementation, heat may be transferred from the immersion data center coolant 302 to natural gas using the first heat exchanger 306. The natural gas may be increased from the first temperature to a second temperature and from the first pressure to a second pressure, where the second temperature is greater than the first temperature and the second pressure is greater than the first pressure. However, in other implementations, the natural gas pressure may remain substantially unchanged. For example, the second natural gas temperature and the second natural gas pressure may be taken at a location 342 proximate the inlet 364. The second natural gas pressure at location 342 may be 2.41 MPa (350 PSI), and the second natural gas temperature at location 342 may be 37.77°C (100 degrees F). However, it should be appreciated that the second natural gas pressure may be within a range of 2.24 MPa. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi and 2.58 MPa (325 PSI and 375 PSI), and the second temperature of natural gas can be within a range of 32.22 °C and 43.33 °C (90 and 110 degrees F). Continuing with this implementation, natural gas may enter inlet 364 of GLG 304 at the second temperature. GLG 104 may produce electricity by the flow of natural gas causing a pressure drop. The pressure drop may produce electricity and natural gas may exit GLG 304 through outlet 366. Natural gas may exit GLG 304 at a third temperature and a third pressure, where the third natural gas temperature is lower than the second natural gas temperature and the third natural gas pressure is lower than the second natural gas pressure. For example, the third natural gas temperature and third natural gas pressure may be taken at a location 344 proximate outlet 366. The third natural gas pressure at location 344 may be 0.861 MPa (125 PSI), and the third natural gas temperature at location 344 may be -17.77 °C (0 degrees F).However, it should be appreciated that the third pressure of natural gas may be within a range of 0.854 MPa and 0.868 MPa (124 PSI and 126 PSI), and the third temperature of natural gas may be within a range of -23.33 °C and 12.22 °C (10 and 10 degrees F). In this implementation, the second heat exchanger 308 may transfer heat from the immersion data center coolant 302 to natural gas exiting the GLG 304 at outlet 366. In this manner, the natural gas may be increased from the third temperature and third pressure to a fourth temperature and a fourth temperature. The fourth natural gas temperature may be higher than the third natural gas temperature, and the fourth natural gas pressure may be higher than the third natural gas pressure. However, in other implementations, the natural gas pressure may remain substantially unchanged. For example, the fourth natural gas temperature and fourth natural gas pressure may be taken at a location 346 downstream of the second heat exchanger 308. The fourth natural gas pressure at location 146 may be 0.861 MPa (125 PSI), and the fourth natural gas temperature at location 346 may be 10°C (50 degrees F). However, it should be appreciated that the fourth natural gas pressure may be within a range of 0.792 MPa and 0.930 MPa (115 PSI and 135 PSI), and the fourth natural gas temperature may be within a range of 4.44°C and 15.55°C (40 and 60 degrees F). The coolant in the immersion data center 302 may be at a first temperature and a first pressure illustrated at a location 350. The coolant may flow in the direction illustrated by the arrows in FIGURE 5. The coolant may be pumped through the pump 360 such that the coolant flows from the immersion data center 302 to the first heat exchanger 306. The first pressure of the coolant at location 350 may be less than 0.068 MPa (10 PSI), and the first temperature of the natural gas may be less than 0.068 MPa (10 PSI). Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi may be 48.88°C (120 degrees F). However, it should be appreciated that the first coolant temperature may be within a range of 43.33°C and 54.44°C (110 and 130 degrees F). It should also be appreciated that the coolant pressure may remain substantially constant throughout the coolant circuit at 0.068 MPa (10 PSI) or less. For example, the coolant may remain at a pressure of 0.034 MPa to 0.103 MPa (5 PSI to 15 PSI) during normal operation. The coolant may then flow to the first heat exchanger 306, and the first heat exchanger 306 may transfer heat from the coolant to the natural gas. The coolant may decrease from the first temperature at location 350 to a second temperature at location 352. The second coolant temperature may be lower than the first coolant temperature and the coolant pressure may remain substantially unchanged.For example, the second coolant temperature may be 100 degrees F (37.77°C); however, it should be appreciated that the second coolant temperature may be within a range of 90 degrees F to 110 degrees F (32.22°C to 43.33°C). In certain implementations, the in-line heater 386 may provide additional heating to the coolant before entering the first heat exchanger 306. The additional heating provided by the in-line heater 386 may be transferred to the natural gas via the first heat exchanger 306. In this manner, additional heat may be provided to the natural gas when the data center 302 is operating at reduced capacity or when increased heating is required. Similarly, the coolant may flow from the first heat exchanger 306 to the second heat exchanger 308 where heat may be transferred from the coolant to the natural gas for a second time. In this manner, the coolant may be cooled from the second temperature at location 352 to a third temperature at location 354. For example, the third coolant temperature may be substantially cooler than the first and second coolant temperatures. The coolant may be recirculated back to the immersion data center 302 at a sufficiently cold temperature. In one implementation, the recirculated coolant (e.g., at the third temperature) may be used to cool components 312 of immersive data center 302. For example, the coolant may be fed to heat exchanger 382 of immersive data center 302. Heat exchanger 382 may transfer heat from dielectric fluid 380 to the coolant. The coolant may exit heat exchanger 382 and may circulate to first heat exchanger 306 where the process may begin again. In one implementation, the system 300 may further comprise a natural gas transmission line valve 334, a gas pressure reducing regulator 326, a natural gas distribution valve 336, and a natural gas pressure reducing regulator 328. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi Natural gas may enter an end-user's natural gas line or a local distribution company's gas line via distribution line 390. In another implementation, the systems 100, 200, or 300 may be configured as a modular solution that may be transported and installed on separate modules, skids, trailers, or any similar method. For example, FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary implementation of a modular system 400 that may be used to power a data center. The system 400 may comprise two modular solutions illustrated as a first modular unit 496 and a second modular unit 498. The modular system 400 may include two data center arrays 402, two gas discharge generators 404, two first heat exchangers 406, two second heat exchangers 408, two inline heaters 486, and two communication systems 410. The system 400 may be configured as a modular solution that may be deployed at a natural gas offloading station. In one implementation, natural gas inlets 474 may be connected to a high-pressure natural gas supply line in a parallel configuration. The high-pressure natural gas supply line may supply natural gas to feed LPGs 404. The natural gas may enter first heat exchangers 406. Heat may be transferred from the refrigerant to the natural gas. Natural gas may then enter LPGs 404 at inlets 464 and may exit outlets 466 at a lower temperature than the temperature at inlets 464. Natural gas may then pass through heat exchangers 408, where heat may be transferred from the refrigerant to the natural gas once again. Natural gas may exit system 400 at natural gas outlets 476 and may flow to a natural gas supplier, for example.It should be appreciated that the modular capabilities of system 400 may allow for any number of GLG 404 so that the power generation of system 400 may be configured to meet the performance requirements of a gas unloading station. For example, a gas offloading station may require cooling and / or power generation requiring multiple gas offloading generators 404. The systems 400 may be configured such that the systems may be connected and operated as modular units to a single system 400. In this manner, the offloading generator 404 and data center 402 systems may be sized accordingly by selecting an appropriate number of offloading generators 404 or by utilizing multiple offloading generator systems. For example, the system 400 may be transported via a skid or trailer having a footprint of 8 feet by 30 feet or 8 feet by 50 feet. Such a skid or trailer may be easily transported and installed at various drop stations. For example, the first unit Rccznn / frznz / e / YiAi modular 496 may be a skid or a trailer, and the second modular unit 498 may also be a skid or a trailer. In one implementation, the GLGs 404 may produce electricity and may supply power to a data center 302 or in-line electric heaters 486 via outputs 478. The system 400 may be further configured for wireless or wired communication via the communication system 410. The communication system 410 may enable remote communication and control and monitoring of the system 400 and the associated data center and / or in-line heater 486. FIGURE 7 depicts an exemplary natural gas control system 500. In various implementations described below, control system 500 may control any or all aspects of systems 10, 100, 200, 300, 400. Control system 500 may include a controller 502 configured to communicate with at least one system 550 and at least one device 552. By way of example, system 550 may be a gas discharge generating system such as GLG 104, 204, 304, or 404. System 550 may also be a natural gas regulating station, a data center, an in-line heater system, or any other necessary system. At least one device 552 may be a sensor, flow meter, pressure sensor, temperature sensor, or any other suitable sensor or device that may be necessary for control of a natural gas system or facility.The controller 502, which may also be referred to as a gateway, may receive data from various devices or systems via a wired or wireless communication link (e.g., from communications system 110, 210, 310, etc.). For example, the controller 502 may receive a signal 504 from system 550 or a signal 506 from device 552. The controller 502 may be located locally at the various systems and devices or may be located remotely. The controller 502 may send and receive data via signals 504 or 506, store corresponding information, and / or perform various processing or calculations on the information. In certain embodiments, the controller 502 may also communicate the data in raw or processed form to a server 510. It should be appreciated that the server 510 may be local, remote, or cloud-based as part of a cloud computing environment 512. In various embodiments, the controller 502 may exist as part of the server 510. The server 510 may also be distributed among multiple locations and / or devices. It should be appreciated that the server 510 may be at least one of a website, a server device, a computer, a cloud service, a processor and memory, or a computing device connected to the Internet and connected to a user device 514. In general, a network may be implemented to couple one or more devices of the system 500 via wired or wireless connectivity, over which data communications between devices are enabled. Rccznn / frznz / e / YiAi and between the network and at least one of a second network, a subnet of the network, or a combination thereof. It should be appreciated that any suitable number of networks may be used with the invention in question, and data communication within the networks may be selected by someone with sound engineering judgment and / or a person skilled in the art. In certain embodiments, the cloud computing environment 512 may also include a database 516. The database 516 may receive information from the server 510 regarding sensor or system information, alerts, notifications, historical information, user information, among other information. The database 516 may be a standalone storage component or may exist as part of the server 510. A user device 514 may communicate with the cloud computing environment 512 to send and receive information to and from the server 510 and / or the database 516. The user device 514 may be, for example, a computer or a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, a wearable device, among others. The user device 514 may interact with an application 518 operating on the server 510. When running, the application 518 may interact with the user device 514 to allow a user to view information, view corresponding notifications or alerts, manipulate information, or update settings for the server 510, the application 518, the controller 502, the system 550, or the device 552. The user device 514 may provide a user interface that allows user interactions with the application 518.It should be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the application 518 may also exist locally on the user device 514 and receive information from the server 510. One skilled in the art can appreciate that the various embodiments of the application 518 described herein can be implemented in connection with any computing device, client device, or server device, which can be implemented as part of a computing network or in a distributed computing environment such as the cloud. The various embodiments described herein can be implemented in substantially any computing system or computing environment having any number of memory or storage units, any number of processing units, and any number of applications and processes occurring on any number of storage units and processing units.This includes, but is not limited to, cloud environments with physical computing devices (e.g., servers) that aggregate computing resources (i.e., memory, persistent storage, processor cycles, network bandwidth, etc.) that are distributed among a plurality of computable objects. The physical computing devices may communicate with each other via a variety of physical communication links such as wired communication media (e.g., optical fiber, twisted-pair cables, coaxial cables, etc.) and / or communication media. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi wireless (e.g., microwave, satellite, cellular, radio or spread spectrum, free space optics, etc.). Physical computing devices may be aggregated and exposed at various levels of abstraction for use by application or service providers to provide computing services or functionality to client computing devices. Client computing devices or user device 514 may access the computing services or functionality through application program interfaces (APIs), web browsers, or other standalone or networked applications. Accordingly, aspects of application 518 may be implemented based on such a cloud environment.For example, the application 518 may reside in the cloud computing environment 512 such that computer-executable instructions implementing its functionality are executed with the aggregate computing resources provided by the plurality of physical computing devices. The cloud computing environment 512 provides one or more methods of accessing the subject innovation, which are utilized by the application 518. In one embodiment, software and / or a component may be installed on the user device 514 to enable data communication between the user device 514 and the cloud computing environment 512. Such access methods include IP addresses, domain names, URLs, etc.Since the aggregate computing resources may be provided by physical computing devices located remotely from each other, the cloud computing environment 512 may include additional devices such as routers, load balancers, switches, etc., that appropriately coordinate network data. In one implementation, the control system 500 may be programmed and / or configured to control and implement various aspects of the natural gas systems disclosed herein (e.g., system 10, 100, 200, 300, 400). For example, the control system 500 may be programmed to control and read data from valves, meters, sensors, the gas discharge generator, heat exchangers, data center, and any other required devices. The control system 500 may also be configured to implement and carry out various methods and logic necessary to operate the various systems described herein. It should be appreciated that a single control system 500 may be used or multiple control systems 500 may be used to implement any system described herein. If multiple control systems 500 are used, the control systems may be independent systems or they may communicate and interact with any or all of the other control systems 500. For example, a first control system 500a may be used to implement and control various aspects of a discharge generating system and a second control system 500b may be used to implement and control various aspects of a discharge generating system. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi aspects of a data center. Control system 500a and control system 500b may communicate with each other to appropriately control aspects of a system or station. FIGURE 8 illustrates an exemplary control logic diagram 600 that may be implemented or carried out by control system 500. Diagram 600 may be used to illustrate an exemplary natural gas preheating and / or postheating procedure carried out by any of the systems described herein. Diagram 600 may illustrate control logic carried out by system 500 when a natural gas offloading system includes both a offloading generator and a secondary form of preheating or postheating. As mentioned above, natural gas is transported long distances at high pressures. However, the pressure is often too high for distribution to end users. Therefore, various natural gas offloading stations are used to decrease the pressure of natural gas prior to distribution to an end user.The pressure drop creates a drastic temperature drop, making the natural gas too cold for downstream distribution. In most cases, natural gas unloading stations use a gas preheater or postheater to heat the natural gas to a suitable temperature. Gas preheaters or postheaters combust a portion of the natural gas and emit CO2 into the environment. The various systems described herein describe methods for using a natural gas unloading generator and at least one heat exchanger to heat the natural gas. The use of the unloading generator and at least one heat exchanger can reduce or eliminate the need for gas heaters or other forms of secondary heating.Logic diagram 600 illustrates how control system 500 may alternate between energy-efficient heat exchangers, gas-fired heaters, or other secondary forms of heating to achieve a suitable natural gas temperature while reducing emissions. It should be appreciated that while the examples provided herein refer to gas-fired heat exchangers and heaters, any form of heater or heat exchanger may be utilized. In other words, the system may be programmed to alternate or vary heating between various preferred methods and non-preferred methods to save and reduce energy. At block 602, control system 500 may monitor characteristics of the natural gas at various times in the natural gas discharge system (e.g., system 300). Monitoring of the natural gas may be achieved by at least one device 552. In this implementation, at least one device 552 may be a temperature sensor and may be used to monitor the temperature of the natural gas at various locations throughout the system. However, it should be appreciated that any number of devices and / or sensors may be used to determine any suitable characteristic of the natural gas system. For example, the control system 500 may also monitor pressure, flow, leak status, seal / sealing status, electricity production, and any other suitable characteristics of the system 300. Additionally, the temperature and other characteristics of the natural gas may be monitored at various times during the unloading process. For example, the temperature may be monitored at least at locations 340, 342, 344, and 346. The natural gas may be monitored continuously or may be monitored at predetermined increments. By way of example, the control system 500 may read the temperature of the natural gas from a temperature sensor every 1 second, every 5 seconds, every 60 seconds, etc. The control system 500 may also record and analyze historical data. At block 604, the control system may compare the temperature of the natural gas to a predetermined temperature threshold. In one implementation, the temperature of the natural gas may be read from location 346, and the temperature threshold may be a lower threshold. In other words, if the temperature is below the predetermined threshold, a positive determination may be made at block 604. For example, a predetermined lower threshold may be set to 4.44°C (40 degrees F), and a positive determination may be made at block 604 when the temperature of the natural gas at location 346 falls below 4.44°C (40 degrees F) for a given period of time. A negative determination may be made at block 604 when the temperature is above the lower threshold. It should be appreciated that the natural gas temperature may be read from any location in the natural gas system or may be read from a plurality of locations. The temperature threshold may also have an upper and lower range. For example, the upper threshold may be 15.55°C (60 degrees F) and the lower threshold may be 4.44°C (40 degrees F). Thus, when the natural gas temperature is outside of the upper or lower threshold, a positive determination may be made at block 604. A negative determination may be made at block 604 when the temperature is within the upper and lower threshold. If the natural gas temperature is above the lower temperature threshold or otherwise within the temperature threshold, the system may return to block 602 to continue monitoring the natural gas temperature. If the natural gas temperature is below the lower temperature threshold, a positive determination is made in block 604, and logic 600 continues to block 606. At block 606, the system determines the status of the heat exchangers (e.g., heat exchangers 306 and 308 or other applicable heaters). The status of the heat exchangers may include any suitable characteristics of the heat exchangers, such as, but not limited to: heat exchange rate (operating capacity), temperature, flow rate, active state, inactive state, alarm state, Rccznn / frznz / e / YiAi etc. implementation, the heat exchangers may operate in an active or inactive state. In an active state, the heat exchangers may be actively exchanging heat between the offloading generator 304 and the data center 302. In an inactive state, the heat exchangers may be determined to have no heat exchange between the offloading generator 304 and the data center 302. In other implementations, the heat exchange rate may be variably controlled (e.g., increased or decreased) based on system requirements. The heat exchange rate may refer to the rate at which heat is transferred between the offloading generator 304 and the data center 302. It should be appreciated that in implementations where the heat exchange rate may be variably controlled, the temperature of the natural gas may be increased or decreased by controlling the heat exchange rate.In other implementations, where the heat exchange rate cannot be variably controlled, the temperature of the natural gas may be increased or decreased by activating or deactivating the heat exchangers 306 and 308. Block 606 may determine whether heat exchangers 306 and 308 are operating at their maximum capacity. In other words, block 606 may determine whether both heat exchangers 306 and 308 are active. Block 606 may also determine whether both heat exchangers are at their maximum heat exchange rate. In other words, block 606 may determine whether the temperature of the natural gas can be further increased using heat exchangers 306 or 308. It should be appreciated that if at least one of the heat exchangers is inactive or operating only at partial capacity, a negative determination may be made in block 606. If a negative determination is made at block 606, the system may proceed to block 608. At block 608, additional heat may be provided to the natural gas by activating or increasing the capacity of either or both of heat exchangers 306 and 308. For example, if heat exchanger 306 is active and heat exchanger 308 is inactive, the system may activate heat exchanger 308 to provide additional heating to the natural gas. Likewise, if both heat exchangers 306 and 308 are active, but heat exchanger 306 is operating at 50% capacity, the capacity of heat exchanger 306 may be increased to provide additional heating to the natural gas. If a positive determination is made at block 606, the system may proceed to block 610. At block 610, the system may determine whether the secondary forms of heating (e.g., gas heater or in-line heater) are operating at maximum capacity. In other words, block 610 may determine whether secondary forms of heating are active. Block 610 may also determine whether the heater Secondary heater is operating at its maximum capacity. It should be appreciated that the heating capacity or output provided by the secondary heater may be increased or decreased by providing additional energy (e.g., fuel, electricity, etc.) or by reducing the power provided to the secondary heater. Therefore, block 610 may determine whether the natural gas temperature may be further increased by increasing the heating rate of the secondary heater. If the secondary heater is inactive or operating at partial capacity, a negative determination may be made in block 610. If a negative determination is made at block 610, the system may proceed to block 612. At block 612, additional heat may be provided to the natural gas by activating the secondary heater or by increasing the capacity of the secondary heater. For example, if the temperature of the natural gas is below the threshold and both heat exchangers 306 and 308 are active and operating at maximum capacity, the secondary heater may be activated to further increase the temperature of the natural gas. It should be appreciated that the secondary heater may be activated but used only to the extent necessary to bring the temperature of the natural gas above the temperature threshold. By utilizing heat exchangers 306 and 308 to the maximum extent possible, the use of the secondary heater may be reduced or eliminated. If a positive determination is made at block 610, the system may proceed to block 614 to issue a system alert or alarm. The alert or alarm may indicate that all heating modes (e.g., heat exchangers 306 and 308 and the secondary heater) are operating at maximum capacity, but the natural gas temperature is still below a threshold. In one implementation, the temperature, pressure, and flow of natural gas through the high-pressure pipeline 12 and through the discharge generator 304 may fluctuate over time. For example, the flow of natural gas may fluctuate depending on the time of day, the current month, or the current season as the demand for natural gas changes. It should be appreciated that the energy / power output of the discharge generator 304 may also fluctuate as the flow (or temperature and pressure) of the natural gas changes. By way of example, more natural gas may flow to the end user during the winter months than during the summer months. The electricity / power output of the discharge generator 304 may be higher during times of higher natural gas flow, since a greater amount of natural gas allows for greater energy production. In another implementation, the control system 500 may be configured to adjust the power usage of the data center 302 as the power generated from the off-load generator 304 fluctuates. The various electrical components of the data center 302 Rccznn / frznz / e / YiAi require electricity to operate. This electricity is provided in whole or in part from electricity generated by the discharge generator 304. Because the electricity generated by the discharge generator 304 may fluctuate over time, the data center 302 may adjust its power consumption in real time to match the output of the discharge generator 304. The data center may adjust its power consumption by placing at least a portion of the electrical devices 312 into a power saving mode, a reduced operating mode, or may turn off the devices 312 altogether. FIGURE 9 illustrates an exemplary control logic diagram 700 that may be implemented or carried out by the control system 500. The diagram 700 illustrates exemplary logic that may be carried out to adjust the power usage of the data center 302 as the power generated from the discharge generator 304 fluctuates. In other words, the control system 500 may match the load of the data center 302 with the power generated by the discharge generator 304. In situations where the load of the data center 302 cannot be increased to match the power output of the discharge generator 304, at least a portion or all of the electricity generated by the discharge generator may be used to power the inline heater 386. At block 702, the system may monitor power characteristics at the gas discharge generator 304 and at the data center 302. The monitoring may be carried out at least in part by one or more devices 552 of the control system 500. In this implementation, the one or more devices 552 may be current sensors, voltage sensors, power sensors, or any other suitable sensor or combination of sensors. The monitoring may indicate the electrical power produced by the natural gas discharge generator 304 in kilowatt hours (kWh). For example, at certain times the discharge generator may output 175 kWh of power. At other times, the discharge generator may output 250 kWh of power. Likewise, the monitoring may also indicate the real-time energy consumption of the data center 302 in kilowatt hours (kWh). The system may proceed to blocks 704 and 708 where the power output of the offloading generator 304 is compared to the power usage (e.g., load) of the data center 302. At block 704, the system determines whether the power consumption of the data center 302 is greater than the power output of the offloading generator 304. If the power consumption of the data center 302 is greater than the power output of the offloading generator 304, the system may proceed to block 706 where the system may decrease the consumption of the data center 302 to match the power output of the offloading generator 304. As discussed above, the data center 302 may reduce its power consumption by placing at least a portion of the electrical devices 312 into a power saving mode, a reduced operation mode, or may turn off the devices 312 altogether. It should be appreciated that Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi that the determination at block 704 may be made with respect to a power consumption threshold rather than using actual power values. For example, the system may reduce power consumption of data center 302 if the power consumption is within a predetermined percentage of the power produced by offloading generator 304. The predetermined percentage may be 80%, 90%, 95%, or any suitable threshold. In block 708, the system determines whether the power consumption of the data center 302 is less than the power output of the offloading generator 304. If the power consumption of the data center 302 is less than the power output of the offloading generator 304, the system may proceed to block 710. At block 710, the system may determine whether the load of the data center 302 can be increased to match the power output of the offloading generator 304. The data center 302 may increase its load if additional components 312 can be powered on or placed on higher power draw, etc. If the data center 302 is powered off and cannot be powered on, or if the data center 302 is in the process of being powered on, the data center 302 may not be able to provide additional load to utilize the excess power output of the offloading generator 304. In block 712, the system may increase the power consumption of the data center 302 to match the power output of the surge generator 304. The data center 302 may increase its power consumption by placing at least a portion of the electrical devices 312 into an operating mode, an increased operating mode, or it may turn on the devices 312 entirely. It should be appreciated that the determination in block 708 may be made with respect to a power consumption threshold rather than using actual power values. For example, the system may increase the power consumption of the data center 302 if the power consumption is within a predetermined percentage of the power output by the surge generator 304. The predetermined percentage may be 80%, 90%, 95%, or any suitable threshold. At block 714, the system may send the excess power generated from the discharge generator 304 to the in-line heater 386. In one implementation, the discharge generator 304 may generate more power than the data center 302 can consume or more power than the data center 302's maximum power consumption. In this case, there may be excess power that can be used by other systems. By way of example, excess power beyond the use of the data center 302 may be used by the in-line natural gas heater 386 to heat the natural gas. In other examples, the excess power may be grounded or transmitted back to an electrical grid. It should be appreciated that the power generated by the discharge generator 304 may be used in any suitable manner consistent with sound engineering judgment. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi The foregoing examples and implementations are described with reference to natural gas offloading system 300, but it should be appreciated that the examples are equally relevant to other embodiments as the systems described herein. For example, the logic illustrated in diagrams 600 or 700 may be embodied and implemented for system 10, 100, 200, 400 in a manner similar to the following description for offloading system 300. FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate an exemplary implementation of a natural gas offloading system 800. System 800 is similar in all respects to systems 100, 200, 300, 400 except as noted herein. Therefore, like reference numerals are used to indicate like features with respect to each system. System 800 includes a natural gas offloading generator 804, a data center 802, an in-line heater 886, and a control system 500. As described above for other implementations, the offloading generator may provide electricity to power the data center 802 and / or the in-line heater 886. A plurality of heat exchangers may also transfer heat from the data center 802 to natural gas either upstream or downstream of the offloading generator 804. In this manner, emissions from the natural gas offloading station may be reduced. FIGURE 11 further illustrates system 800 by means of a piping diagram indicating exemplary skid locations and designations for each respective system. For example, skid 892 may designate a skid for discharge generator 804 and its components. Skid 894 may designate a skid for data center 802 and its respective components. Similarly, skid 896 may designate a skid for in-line heater 886 and its respective components. In other implementations, a single skid or trailer may contain the components of data center 802, in-line heater 886, and discharge generator 804. The word exemplary is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as exemplary should not necessarily be construed as advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, the use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a specific way. As used in this application, the term or is intended to mean an inclusive or rather than an exclusive or. That is, unless otherwise specified, or as is apparent from the context, X employs A or B is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is true in any of the foregoing cases. Furthermore, at least one of A and B and / or the like generally means A or B or both A and B.Furthermore, the articles a / an / an and an / an as used in this application and in the appended claims may be interpreted. Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi generally mean one or more unless otherwise specified or it is clear from the context that a singular form is intended. Although the subject matter has been described in specific language of structural features and / or methodological aspects, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or aspects described above. Rather, the specific features and aspects described above are described as exemplary embodiments of the claims. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications can be made to this embodiment without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, although the disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based on a reading and understanding of this description and the accompanying drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. With particular regard to the various functions performed by the components described above (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to apply, unless otherwise indicated, to any component that performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even if it is not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure that performs the function in the exemplary implementations of the disclosure illustrated herein. Furthermore, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "includes," "has," "having," "with," or variants thereof are used in the detailed description or in the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising." The implementations have been described hereinbefore. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above methods and apparatus may incorporate changes and modifications without departing from the general scope of this invention. All such modifications and alterations are intended to be included to the extent that they fall within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

Claims

1. A natural gas system comprising: a high pressure natural gas supply; a discharge generator comprising an inlet configured to accept a portion of natural gas from the high pressure natural gas supply, the natural gas entering the inlet at a first temperature and a first pressure, and an outlet configured to emit the natural gas from the discharge generator at a second pressure lower than the first pressure and a second temperature lower than the first temperature, wherein the discharge generator is configured to reduce the pressure of the natural gas and generate electricity; a first heat exchanger in fluid connection with the inlet of the discharge generator, the first heat exchanger configured to transfer heat to the natural gas;and an electric heater configured to provide heat to the natural gas via the first heat exchanger, wherein the electric heater is powered by electricity generated by the discharge generator.; 2. The natural gas system of claim 1, wherein the first heat exchanger is located upstream of the discharge generator and is configured to transfer heat from the electric heater to the natural gas before the natural gas enters the inlet of the discharge generator.

3. The natural gas system of claim 2, further comprising a second heat exchanger located downstream of the discharge generator, the second heat exchanger being configured to transfer heat from the electric heater to the natural gas after the natural gas exits the outlet of the discharge generator.

4. The natural gas system of claim 1, wherein the natural gas system is configured to heat the natural gas above a predetermined temperature set point.

5. The natural gas system of claim 3, further comprising a refrigerant circuit filled with a refrigerant, the refrigerant circuit being configured to circulate the refrigerant between the electric heater and at least one of the first heat exchanger or the second heat exchanger.

6. The natural gas system of claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises an immersion data center, comprising a body filled with a dielectric fluid, wherein at least one electrical component is at least partially submerged in the dielectric fluid and the immersion data center is powered by electricity generated by the discharge generator.

7. The natural gas system of claim 6, wherein an amount of power generated from the discharge generator is greater than the power consumption of the data center, thereby creating a power surplus, the system being configured to send the power surplus to the electric heater such that the power surplus is converted into heat.

8. The natural gas system of claim 6, wherein the system further comprises a refrigerant circuit filled with a refrigerant, the refrigerant circuit being configured to circulate the refrigerant between the data center and the first heat exchanger.

9. The natural gas system of claim 8, further comprising a third heat exchanger located at the data center, the third heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from the dielectric fluid of the data center to the refrigerant.

10. The natural gas system of claim 9, characterized in that the electric heater is in fluid connection with the refrigerant circuit and is located between the first heat exchanger and the data center.

11. The natural gas system of claim 10, wherein the natural gas is heated entirely by heating provided by the data center or the electric heater.

12. A method for controlling a natural gas unloading station, the natural gas unloading station comprising: a high pressure natural gas supply; a discharge generator comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet configured to accept a portion of natural gas from the high pressure natural gas supply and an outlet configured to output the natural gas at a lower temperature and pressure, wherein the discharge generator is configured to reduce the pressure of the natural gas and generate electricity; a first heat exchanger in fluid connection with the inlet of the discharge generator, the first heat exchanger configured to transfer heat to the natural gas;and an electric heater powered by electricity generated by the discharge generator and configured to provide heat to the natural gas via the first heat exchanger, the method comprising: monitoring a temperature of the natural gas exiting the discharge generator outlet; determining that the temperature of the natural gas is below a predetermined temperature set point; and upon determining that the natural gas is below the predetermined temperature set point, directing an increased amount of electricity from the discharge generator to the electric heater to provide additional heat to the natural gas.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first heat exchanger is located upstream of the discharge generator and is configured to transfer the heat generated from the electric heater to natural gas before the natural gas enters the inlet of the discharge generator.

14. The method of claim 12, further comprising: determining that the first heat exchanger is operating at its maximum capacity; determining that the electric heater is operating at its maximum capacity; and upon determining that the natural gas is below the predetermined temperature setpoint and that the first heat exchanger and the electric heater are operating at their maximum capacity, activating a gas heater to provide additional heat to the natural gas.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: determining that the temperature of the natural gas is above the predetermined temperature set point; and Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi upon determining that the natural gas is above the predetermined temperature set point, deactivating the gas heater.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: determining that the gas heater is deactivated and that the temperature of the natural gas is above the predetermined temperature setpoint; and upon determining that the gas heater is deactivated and the natural gas is above the predetermined temperature setpoint, reducing power to the electric heater and redirecting power to ground.

17. A method for controlling a natural gas offloading station, the natural gas offloading station comprising: a high pressure natural gas supply; an immersion data center, comprising a body filled with a dielectric fluid, wherein one or more electrical components are at least partially submerged in the dielectric fluid; a discharge generator comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet configured to accept a portion of natural gas from the high pressure natural gas supply and an outlet configured to emit the natural gas at a lower temperature and pressure, wherein the discharge generator is configured to reduce the pressure of the natural gas and generate electricity to power at least a portion of the immersion data center;a first heat exchanger in fluid connection with the inlet of the discharge generator, the first heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from the dielectric fluid of the data center to natural gas; and an in-line heater positioned between the first heat exchanger and the data center, the in-line heater powered by electricity generated by the discharge generator and configured to provide heat to the natural gas upstream of the discharge generator, the method comprising: monitoring a power generated from the discharge generator and a power consumption of the data center; determining whether the power generated by the discharge generator is greater than the power consumption of the data center;and upon determining that the power generated by the discharge generator is greater than the power consumption of the center, increasing the power consumption of the data center by placing Rccznn / bznz / e / YiAi at least one of the one or more electrical components into a higher power consumption state or turning on at least one of the one or more electrical components.; 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: determining that the data center is operating at maximum power consumption, wherein the data center is determined to be operating at maximum power consumption if the power consumption of the data center cannot be increased to match the power generated from the discharge generator; and upon determining that the data center is operating at maximum power consumption, redirecting the excess power to the inline heater or ground.

19. The method of claim 18, characterized in that the surplus energy is calculated in real time as the energy generated by the discharge generator less the energy consumed by the data center.

20. The method of claim 17, further comprising: determining whether the power generated by the offloading generator is less than the power consumption of the data center; and upon determining that the power generated from the offloading generator is less than the power consumption of the center, reducing the power consumption of the data center by placing at least one of the one or more electrical components in a reduced power consumption state.

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