Tuesday, May 15, 2012

News and Society Blog-Energy: Is Natural Gas the New Clean ...

Clean energy is a big term these days - with global warming becoming more and more of an issue, companies all over the world are scrambling to find a new way to power the world without causing it harm. But there is one fuel that can make a positive difference for the environment right now - and we even have a good supply of it right here in America.

It's natural gas, and you might even have it in your home already. According to the US Energy Information Administration, over 65 million residential consumers used this energy source in 2010. The Census Bureau reports that the US population was just over 300 million that same year, so that means around 21% of Americans used it in 2010 - and that percentage doesn't even include industrial consumers! So, how can it be our new clean energy source? Read on to find out!

Natural Gas Emissions

According to the EPA, this energy source produces far fewer emissions than coal or oil when burned for electricity production. It also uses little water resources and generates no solid waste. But one of the biggest ways it produces fewer emissions is how it is transported. It moves through a nationwide underground pipe system, so unlike coal or oil it doesn't require transport on trucks or trains that have harmful emissions. It is certainly considered a clean energy source when compared to coal or oil.

Natural Gas Prices

A major aspect of why some clean energy sources never become popular is because they simply cost too much. If people don't have the money to pay for it, the usually choose the cheaper, and many times not environmental friendly, option. But since natural gas is collected right here in the US, and we currently have an oversupply of it, prices are very low. In fact, many Pennsylvania natural gas companies just recently lowered their already very reasonable prices. It is a clean energy fuel that won't be hindered by an expensive price tag.

Natural Gas Uses

This energy source has many uses. In addition to electricity production, it can also be used for home heating. So, rather than putting more harmful emissions into the air to create electricity to heat your water heater or dryer, you can have it piped into your home and avoid a power plant having to burn oil or coal to produce electricity. Plus, it tends to produce warmer temperatures than other fuel sources, so it's really a better option in terms of energy efficiency as well!

Does Natural Gas

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