Natural gas is often seen as a bridge to a more sustainable future in the face of global environmental challenges and the ongoing energy transition. This reputation is well-earned, as natural gas produces significantly lower emissions compared to coal and oil. In fact, it’s frequently recognized as one of the cleanest-burning fossil fuels.
But beyond its role as a relatively low-emission energy source, natural gas offers a wide range of advantages that make it a key component of the current and future energy landscape.
Why Does Natural Gas Produce Less Pollution?
Natural gas is the cleanest-burning fossil fuel, producing significantly less pollution compared to coal and oil due to its simpler chemical composition.
The primary component of natural gas is methane (CH₄), which has a higher hydrogen-to-carbon ratio. When burned, methane generates more water vapor and less carbon dioxide (CO₂) per unit of energy, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Additionally, burning natural gas releases far fewer air pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter, which are commonly produced when burning coal and oil.
Its gaseous form also allows for a more even mixture with air, leading to cleaner, more complete, and more efficient combustion.
What Are the Advantages of Natural Gas Over Other Energy Sources?
1. Established Supply and Infrastructure
Natural gas is one of the energy sources that has a relatively stable supply and established infrastructure. The natural gas pipeline network is also widespread in various parts of the world. This convenience allows for efficient transportation of gas from its source to consumption centers.
Natural gas liquefaction technology (Liquefied Natural Gas or LNG) also allows gas to be delivered via tanker to areas that are not reached by pipelines. Of course, the availability of this supply provides certainty for industry and consumers, thereby reducing the risk of energy disruptions in the future that can hamper economic activity.
2. Flexibility in Power Generation
In Indonesia, Gas Power Plants or PLTG are known to have high operational flexibility. PLTG can also be turned on and off quickly, making PLTG an ideal partner for intermittent renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.
When electricity production from renewable energy decreases due to unfavorable weather conditions, PLTG can quickly fill the gap and maintain the stability of the electricity network. This is a crucial capability in the transition to an energy system dominated by clean energy.
3. High Combustion Efficiency
Natural gas combustion is more thermodynamically efficient than other fossil fuels. Gas-fired power plants generate more energy per unit of fuel thanks to more complete combustion processes.
This efficiency not only lowers operational costs but also contributes to reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Ongoing advancements in gas turbine technology continue to improve the efficiency of gas-based power generation.
4. Crucial Role in the Petrochemical Industry
In the world of the petrochemical industry, natural gas can be one of the important raw materials that can be used as plastics, fertilizers, paints, and also textiles. All of these products come from chemical compounds extracted from natural gas
Moreover, considering the availability of affordable and stable natural gas, its role is so important in maintaining the smooth supply chain of the petrochemical industry and meeting consumer needs.
5. A Cleaner Fuel for Transportation
Natural gas holds great promise as a cleaner alternative transportation fuel, especially in the form of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and LNG. These fuels can power buses, trucks, passenger vehicles, and even ships.
Compared to gasoline and diesel, natural gas produces significantly lower levels of particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, contributing to improved urban air quality.
6. Support for Hydrogen Technology Development
In the world of blue hydrogen technology development, natural gas also plays an important role. In fact, blue hydrogen is produced from natural gas through a process called steam methane reforming (SMR) with the capture and storage of carbon dioxide (CCS) produced.
This technology enables large-scale hydrogen production by utilizing existing natural gas infrastructure, while reducing carbon emissions. This is where blue hydrogen has the potential to become a cleaner future fuel for application in the industrial and transportation worlds.
7. Relatively Affordable Energy Source
Historically, natural gas has remained relatively affordable and stable in price compared to oil. Its abundance across different regions also supports this price stability, making it an appealing option for developing countries looking to expand energy access without excessive economic strain.
8. Role in a Gradual Energy Transition
Natural gas is well-positioned as a transition fuel. Compared to coal and oil, it offers lower carbon emissions, helping to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the energy sector.
This makes natural gas a valuable interim solution as renewable technologies continue to evolve and become more cost-effective.
Natural gas is more than just a cleaner fossil fuel, it’s a versatile, reliable, and efficient energy source that plays a critical role in power generation, transportation, and the petrochemical industry. Its use as LNG, in particular, can help minimize the risk of future energy disruptions and support stable economic growth.
However, it’s important to use natural gas wisely. While the world moves toward renewable energy, natural gas will remain a crucial part of a balanced and sustainable energy strategy. It serves as a bridge, ensuring energy reliability while helping to transition toward a cleaner future.
