Natural gas is an important part of the cooperatives’ fuel portfolio, accounting for approximately 7% of the electricity cooperatives generate and purchase for consumers. Natural gas is a clean, reliable and efficient fuel for electric generation.
Natural gas is obtained through drilling, often in the same locations, both onshore and offshore, as oil production. The raw gas product is chemically processed to remove impurities and then transported across the nation via an elaborate network of interstate pipelines. Cooperatives purchase the fuel from local natural gas distribution companies, directly from gas producers or through gas marketers.
Domestic production accounts for most of the natural gas our nation uses today. However, as domestic supplies dwindle and demand grows, US dependence on foreign supplies of natural gas will increase. In the next decade, the U.S. is expected to significantly increase its import volume of liquefied natural gas (LNG) -- produced as far away as Australia and shipped to domestic import terminals.
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National Energy Technology Laboratory: Increased Reliance on Natural Gas Raises Energy Security and Cost Concerns
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