While we enjoy turning on our heat, using our stove, and accessing everyday appliances, we often don't think about the energy source of our own consumption. Natural gas helps keep millions of homes and businesses running around the world. Although, how much do you actually know about this fossil fuel?
Natural Gas and What You Might Not Know
Natural gas has been studied for centuries, and humans have figured out how to detect it, drill it, and use it. However, there’s a variety of uses and other information you may still not know. That’s why we’ve put together these facts about natural gas energy, so you can learn more about this clean energy source:
1. The Formation of Natural Gas Sources Originates from Dead Plants and Animals.
What we now use as natural gas started as organic materials, specifically the remains of dead plants and animals. These compounds were packed and layered underneath dirt, sand, and rock over long periods, slowly becoming more compressed. As a result of pressure, time, and heat, these materials were transformed into natural gas.
2. Archeologist's Records of The First Well for Natural Gas Use Was Reportedly Drilled in China In 211 BCE.
Natural gas has been used as a source of energy for centuries. Although it has consistently remained a valuable commodity, how we process it, use it, and renew it has shifted as technology has allowed us to be more efficient. Research has shown that this first well was 500 feet deep and drilled with bamboo poles.
3. Natural Gas Is Considered A Clean-Burning Fossil Fuel Source.
Some believe that because natural gas is a fossil fuel, it isn't clean or renewable. However, it produces far less carbon dioxide (and other pollutants) than other fossil fuels to produce the same amount of energy. Technology has even allowed for it to become a renewable source of energy.
4. Two of The Most Common Uses of Natural Gas in The U.S. Include Transportation and Electricity Generation.
Due to its status as a relatively clean energy source, natural gas is used to generate electricity and fuel public transportation, like busses and other commercial vehicles. Since it produces lower emissions than other sources of energy, companies find it beneficial for mass use.
5. Natural Gas Is Not Only Odorless but Tasteless and Colorless.
Unprocessed natural gas has no smell or taste to it. However, if there is a leak in your home, you will smell the sulfur or rotten egg smell. This happens because of the chemical added to natural gas for safety reasons so that consumers can detect the odor if a leak occurs.
6. In the United States, almost 69 Million Households Use Natural Gas.
Natural gas use is mostly associated with household appliances. Also, approximately 59 million homes in the U.S. use natural gas specifically for heat. It is cost-efficient and highly effective, as well as safe and reliable for providing power to homes.
7. Modernity and Technological Advancements Have Led to More Efficient and Eco-Friendly Ways to Discover Natural Gas in The Earth.
Specifically, this technology includes 3-D and 4-D seismic registers to pick up natural gas sources, as well as GPS and satellite technology. These approaches help avoid damaging the environment through the guesswork of exploratory well-digging, which can lead to ecological issues and accidents.
8. In the United States, Texas Produces the Highest Percentage of Natural Gas, At 22%.
Two states create over one-third of the total natural gas production within the United States. After Texas, Pennsylvania is the second-highest producer at 20%, followed by Oklahoma, at 9%. These states outsource their natural gas to those that lack their own significant source.
9. Natural Gas Is A More Effective Means of Energy Production Than Electricity, Especially When It Comes Down to Shifting Towards Higher Energy Efficiency.
Whether coming from in-state or out-of-state, natural gas can be up to three times more cost-effective than electrical energy. As the need for energy efficiency increases, many appliance builders focus their research on creating more efficient electrical appliances. Part of the challenge is that these electrical appliances would need to be repurchased and replaced in homes, contributing to the higher cost.
10. Natural Gas That Is Used with Heating Appliances Is Made Up Mostly of Methane Gas.
Natural gas is made up of approximately 90% methane and 10% of a combination of nitrogen and ethane. Methane gas is the same gas produced from livestock, and it is often used in fertilizers.
About Starion Energy:
Starion Energy is an independent US retail supplier loyal to everyday hard-working families, local businesses, and the small communities which we strengthen and empower. We secure the path towards smarter, cleaner energy choices. Our agile working style, resources, and seasoned energy leaders is how we can match people's changing lives with easy plans that yield results. It is our honest top performing personal service and the genuine positivity of our people that impact customer's lives and makes us the go-to long-term energy partner.