Addressing Current Demands for Fuel

Electric power generation is the largest consumer of energy in the United States and many sources also cite it as the single largest source of air quality emissions. Natural gas provides a clean and reliable solution for meeting the growing demand for energy in a carbon-constrained world.

According to a number of studies cited by the Pew Center on Global Climate Change, power plants fueled by natural gas emit 95 percent and 83 percent fewer metric tons of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxide (NOx), respectively, per GWh than the average coal-fired plants. Natural gas fueled plants also emit less than one-half the carbon dioxide (CO₂) per GWh of the average coal plant. Natural gas combined cycle (NGCC) power plants enjoy a lower capital risk, full-load energy efficiency advantage, and a lower emissions profile (or penalty) making them more acceptable and easier to permit.

Natural gas already plays a significant role in fueling the nation’s economy by providing a reliable fuel source that is cleaner than other fossil fuels. We are committed to being active, constructive participants in conversations to address the need to reduce emissions.

As an industry leader, we are committed to efforts led by organizations such as the EPA Natural Gas STAR program (see sidebar) to develop and share best practices that may help the industry become more efficient and reduce emissions.