Let's Explore Natural Gas!

How We Use Natural Gas

Natural gas is the third largest source of energy and nearly everyone in the United States uses natural gas. Natural gas is the cleanest burning of the fossil fuels. That means it is environmentally friendly. Scientists are always developing new ways to use natural gas as it emits less carbon and sulfur into the air.

In the United States alone there are 32 states that produce natural gas. Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma produce the most. The U.S. has lots of reserves, and scientists predict we have enough of our own natural gas to last at least 50 years.

Industry is the biggest user of natural gas. Natural gas is an ingredient found in many items we use every day like fertilizers, glue, paint and detergents.

Residential gas use is second to industry using around 22%. At home we use natural gas for fireplaces, outdoor lighting, grilling, cooktops and ovens, and heating our homes and water.

Electric utilities is third with 18% usage. Power plants use gas to generate electricity.

Commercial business is fourth with 14% usage. Schools, churches, stores, hospitals, restaurants and other commercial buildings use natural gas for heating and cooking.

Cars, trucks and buses are also now available that use natural gas as fuel. Transportation accounts for only 3% of natural gas usage.

Source for Gas Consumption: EIA - Annual Energy Outlook 2002