In scientific terms, it can be defined as a hydrocarbon gas made of methane and may also include varying amount of alkanes, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and nitrogen. In more simplistic terms, it is one of the cleanest forms of energy available. What is this energy source we speak of? It is natural gas and it has recently become one of the most cost effective and healthy energy sources used in cooking, heating and generating electricity. With so many benefits of natural gas, this does not come as a surprise.
What Are the Benefits of Natural Gas?
Natural gas is found in reservoirs deep beneath the earth’s crust. The gas is extracted and processed to remove any impurities and the combustion process releases very few byproducts into the atmosphere. This results in much less pollution and an improved environment. This clean combustion also results in any soot, odor or ash left behind, and the gas itself is non-toxic. In this day and age, we are always looking for a way to save a dollar. Turning to natural gas as your energy source is an easy way to do just that. Natural gas has an abundant supply which makes it less susceptible to price change than its alternatives. Most electric appliances cost more money to operate than natural gas ones, and you can often receive rebates for natural gas appliances as well. What’s more is that you are getting more bang for your buck because of the reliability and efficiency of natural gas. The underground pipeline reduces the chance of an outage, while most gas appliances will work even when the electricity is not. The pipeline also eliminates the need for on-site tanks or deliveries and cannot be weathered or easily damaged. Lastly, natural gas reigns supreme when it comes to safety. Producers add an odorant to the gas so that when the smell of the gas is detected, it signals that there is a leakage in the pipe. Between the health benefits, cost effectiveness and safety advantages, natural gas has become a staple in the world of energy and will continue to be in the future.