Natural gas is in large part methane, a hydrocarbon -- burning it in our atmosphere adds to the existing CO2 desequestration load and exacerbates the global climate change problem. Natural gas creates less of a problem than, say, coal because it is made up in part by hydrogen (which burns to water) and it can be turned into electricity more efficiently by gas turbine generators, but it would be best to not pump it at all if CO2 emissions reductions are to be achieved.
Posted by Robert Sneddon at June 18, 2009 02:22 PMAgree that natural gas contributes to greenhouse gas. But it is cleaner than oil. Maybe a better idea would be flex fuel vehicles that could use natural gas or gasoline. This would eliminate OPEC's ability to blackmail us and reduce CO2.
Then build nuclear for electricity. I read today that a new nuke is planned for Ohio and dozens more around the country this next decade.
Steven Chu was a great choice for Secretary of Energy.
Posted by Dennis at June 18, 2009 02:51 PMI've talked of this before here(see Mary). Are rooftop or vertical wind turbines the answer? PM has a viewpoint here. Take or make a personal choice, get one of these, or a few, they work in urban areas too. This article talks to only rooftop units, try looking up vertical wind turbines as a free standing unit. They don't require any modifications to the roof. These can reduce your dependence on the grid. Lesson the cost of a personal solar unit.
I see RS up there sorta throws the wrench on natural gas? Did you see that one coming Deacon?
There's also a next gen local use nuke powerplant available. This unit can be located in neighborhoods and supply electricity for whole city blocks. they require only a 10 by 40 foot footprint and will produce for twenty years without maintenance. Neighborhood co-ops can get into these fast. Try goggling this too.
Posted by peter at June 18, 2009 07:27 PM